Hey guys!

I'm so sorry about the delay but, to make up for it, this is one of my longest chapters yet! More than 17k words! You have no idea how effort I've put into this chapter so please, vote and comment.

Disclaimer: There's one line here that I've taken out of the Dark' tv series. Also, the title to this chapter's been taken out from "I See Fire" by Ed Sheeran. Also, I don't own the characters of this fic except for Beth and Adrien.

Hope you like this! Update on chapter 15 coming soon so stay tuned!

Chapter 14. "Raise A Glass Of Wine (For The Last Time)."

Lucy stared in silence as the Narnian leaders started entering their meeting room, all of them looking expectant as they waited for their monarchs to explain the new part of the plan.

Ever since they made it back to Narnia, Lucy had found herself in continuous struggle with Peter and Susan. She understood the pressure they were under and, of course, she shared it until a certain extent, being a queen herself. However, in contrast with her older siblings, she knew when it was not up to her to solve things or to save Narnia. Lucy knew from the start that this war, this revolution, it wasn't about her. It was bigger than any of them. It was about saving the Narnians, it was about assuring them a future in which they would be safe and in peace in their own home.

That always set Lucy apart from the others, but it seemed to be more obvious during their second trip to Narnia. Ever since they made it back - and especially after meeting Caspian and Beth -, they all desperately hoped they would get to stay in Narnia for good. Their lives during the Golden Age haunted them, and it made them crave for the lives they had in their beloved country once upon a time; while they also were terrified of saying goodbye to their loved ones in Narnia.

Lucy shared all of those feelings but, unlike Peter, Susan, or even Edmund, she had come to realize, even if not entirely in a conscious manner, that their time as monarchs was coming to and end. Once a King or Queen, always a King or Queen, and maybe they would get to stay by the time the war's over but, if any of them were going to be Narnia's saviours, those were Beth and Caspian.

And Aslan. It was always up to Aslan.

But that day, Peter had realized that too, so he was sending Lucy to the woods in a quest to find the Great Lion. All they had to do was come up with a plan to buy her some time.

Lucy knew she should be excited, thankful that her brother had finally accepted that she was as capable as the others. Instead, as the last officers entered the room and faced Peter with attentive expressions, Lucy hurriedly schooled her expression into a confident one, and tried to ignore her quivering nerves as best as she could. She had been given an important responsibility, yes, and her neverending faith had finally been acknowledged, but she was also beginning to feel the pressure that came with it. She was now an active part of their plan for survival, and she had the responsibility to see the task given to her through to the end.

Lucy sighed wearily, instantly hoping nobody else heard, and tried to toughen up. At the end of the day, all she could do was pray she was worthy of this quest, and that she would be capable of helping her people survive.

As if sensing her conflict, Susan stood behind her and placed a hand on her shoulder as Peter began to explain the new adjustments to their plan. The Narnians set their focus on their High King but Lucy soon enough was distracted, her focus soon moving elsewhere.

Her eyes soon enough fell on her family and friends, and Lucy found herself trying to decipher how they felt about this, while dread filled her senses dread as she remembered the last war council they had.

Peter, like usual, explained things in a clear, authoritative voice; but there was no reckless arrogance in him, only focus and concern for their people. Beth stood behind him, her arms locked behind her back, her eyes on either the High King or the drawings laid on the circular table by the middle of the room. She was now wearing the battle dress made for her by the blacksmiths, its metal almost as dark as the one in Caspian's armour, and her quiver hang across her back. Caspian sat on some steps by one side of the room, his armour already on as well, and listened to Peter attentively while also talking quietly to Professor Cornelius - who sat behind him -, or to Adrien, who stood by his side. Lastly, Susan and Edmund both stood protectively behind Lucy, both of them carrying their weapons, yet not their armours.

Lucy couldn't see neither disagreement or conflict on their faces. At once, she knew they all agreed to the plan, and that made her feel infinitely better. Lucy finally felt as if they were, at last, the team they were supposed to be since the start, and it all gave her the hope that everything was going to be fine.

She still had the quest itself before her but well, small details.

"Cakes and kettledrums! That's your brand new plan?" Trumpkin exclaimed instantly after Peter finished explaining the plan, his voice raising with pure, undiluted rage. He stalked towards Lucy, his eyes on the High King even as he pointed his finger at the young girl. "Sending your own sister, a little girl, alone into the darkest and most dangerous parts of the forest, surrounded by filthy telmarines!?"

"She isn't little, Trumpkin," Edmund argued softly, but completely ignored by the dwarf.

"I understand your concern, Trumpkin," Beth intervened too. "But Lucy is the one whose faith has never wavered, not even during our darkest days here. She's more than capable of doing this."

Lucy smiled thankfully at her brother and Beth, her two eternal allies. Edmund smiled back. Beth winked at her subtly.

"Princess Elizabeth is right, Trumpkin. Lucy is our only chance to get to Aslan," Peter spoke gently, yet decisively. He then glanced at Lucy with a small smile. "And we need Aslan's help to end this war once and for all."

"Besides, she won't be alone," Susan quipped in suddenly, her tone decisive. Peter looked at her and nodded, so Susan moved to stand besides her sister, grabbing her hand as she did so. "I'll keep our Valiant Queen safe."

Trumpkin looked around him, his usual scowl deepening as he found no ally to support him on this argument. At last, he looked again at the Valiant Queen, whose friendship he had come to cherish dearly, his voice dropping to a pleading whisper. "Haven't enough of us died already?"

Lucy returned his look with pity, sharing her friend's pain. Nikabrik was a name that hadn't come up again ever since the incident with the White Witch but she knew what it was to trust somebody only to be betrayed. She could understand Trumpkin without problem because she too had been forced to kill former allies and that pain would haunt her forever, regardless of how necessary it was or the amount of people saved by that action.

Trufflehunter stepped in from behind his friend, his voice also laced with melancholy. "Nikabrik was my friend too, but he lost hope. Queen Lucy hasn't, Trumpkin, and neither have I."

"For Aslan," Reepicheep declared, his voice loud amidst the heavy silence. He unsheathed his sword and bowed at Aslan's daughter, His representative while He wasn't physically with them. Behind Reepicheep, his fellow mice bowed too.

"For Aslan!" Bulgy Bear exclaimed from the back of the room, his voice booming.

"For Aslan," Beth added softly before unsheathing her sword. Immediately, Edmund, Susan, Adrien and Caspian followed her lead. Peter glanced around him, nodding his thanks for the approval of the plan before looking inquisitively at Lucy.

Peter's message was clear.

'Are you ready for this?'

Lucy hesitated before nodding. She was. She had to be.

Trumpking sighed defeatedly and looked at Lucy again, now with determination. "I'm going with you, then."

Lucy shook her head firmly and reached to place her hands on the dwarf's shoulders as she smiled with as much confidence as she could muster. "No. You're needed here, Trumpkin. I promise I'm going to be just fine."

"Besides, we will need to come up with a plan to divert the Telmarines attention long enough for Queen Lucy and Queen Susan to get back here safely," Peter intervened, effectively ending the discussion. He glanced around the room expectantly. "Does anyone have any ideas?"

"If I may," Caspian gazed at Professor Cornelius before clearing his throat and standing up, his eyes on Peter as he waited for the High King to allow his intervention.

Almost unconsciously, the others followed his glance and also looked at the High King with expectation. From the sidelines, Lucy's eyes narrowed as she waited for her brother's answer with dread, as it would indicate whether the mighty High King had finally matured.

Peter faltered for a second, but then nodded gravely at the Telmarine Prince.

Lucy released a breath she didn't realize she had been holding.

"Miraz is a tyrant and a murderer. He will not follow any order or suggestion from anyone around him but, as King, he is subject to the traditions and expectations of his people," Caspian began, smirking subtly as he grew enthusiastic with the idea. "There is one in particular I believe will buy us some time."

"How can we be sure it will work?" Edmund intervened suddenly, yet not as harshly as he would have six weeks ago.

"Because Miraz won't be able to resist the opportunity to flaunt his skills before his army. Caspian is right. As King, he is powerful yet his reputation could be easily harmed if he fails to show his value to his people. If his people get any indication that he's a coward and therefore, that he's no longer threatening, then he's risking his own life." Beth quipped, barely withholding from rolling her eyes at powerful men and their weak egos. "Ever since the Telmarines began to accumulate power in the country, they would offer their enemies an alternative way to avoid war. A leader from each side would agree to fight in a duel. The winner assured their people their freedom, while the loser side would have to surrender, immediately becoming prisoners of the winner side. Their territory would belong to those victorious."

"When would they stop fighting?" Glenstorm asked thoughtfully.

Caspian and Beth exchanged an hesitant glance before the first one faced the crowd again. "The tradition states that the fight is until death. If you lose the duel, you pay with your life."

A deep silence followed, in which all Narnians slowly took in the implications of the risk presented to them. Meanwhile, Lucy glanced at the other five monarchs with frantic concern, barely refraining herself from begging them not to go forward with this idea.

Peter, her courageous leader.

Susan, her sweet confident.

Edmund, her loyal and trusted protector.

Beth, her selfless and badass best friend.

Caspian, her protective and kind older brother.

How could she stay by the sidelines and allow one of them to risk their lives for Narnia? Yet, also, how could she even think of stopping them? Wasn't that why they were there for in the first place? To save Narnia, regardless of the cost?

Lucy closed her eyes in defeat.

If only it could all be over, so she didn't have to fear anymore.

Edmund crossed his arms, his head cocked in a thoughtful manner as he regarded Peter and Caspian. "The Telmarines haven't come here to be pulled into a duel they may or may not win. They won't accept a defeat so easily. We will be betrayed by them."

Beth was the one who answered him. "You are right, they will not abide by the rules but it isn't about that. If we manage to divert them for long enough, when we eventually face each other in battle, Aslan will be by our side."

Adrien perked up at that, his eyes widening as if suddenly realizing something, and looked straight at his sister. "But, does that mean one of you could die? Beth-."

Beth hurried to her brother, taking him into her arms and whispering comfortingly next to his ear as he cried silently into her chest. The crew around them looked at the pair mournfully, hating this part of war the most.

Families breaking without even getting the chance to say a proper goodbye. Friends, siblings, loved ones, all of them departing one another without knowing whether they were going to see one another again.

It was all so unfair.

After a long moment, Trufflehunter cleared his throat and gazed at his fellow Narnians. "This is not our decision to make. Their Majesties are the ones risking their lives for our country. They should get to agree whether they are okay with this without any pressure from us."

Lucy gazed at her family once more as the Narnians expressed their agreement. She wondered who would volunteer. Also, she worried about the others. If it was hard for her to imagine one of them risking their life in a duel, she could only imagine how hard it would be to the others, who were going to actually witness it.

She thought about Edmund and Beth, who loved each other deeply despite everything, and of Susan and Caspian, who were obviously in love, even if they tried to hide it. She thought about Peter, their overprotective and loving leader.

This strategy might have been necessary, even Lucy could accept that, but it was also awful and, for the first time, it made her wish they weren't leaders or monarchs, and therefore, the responsible ones to see Narnia through to a new Golden Age.

"Very well," Peter declared before looking at the Marksman Queen. "Su?"

Susan straightened before nodding, her eyes wide with barely hidden concern. "I agree with the plan."

Besides her, Edmund avoided looking in the direction of the Daughter of Aslan as he nodded too. "I'm in. Caspian?"

"Of course," Caspian answered before looking towards the princess. "Beth?"

Beth straightened too as everybody looked at her, her face schooled into a determined scowl even as she unconsciously tightened her arms around her brother. "I agree. Peter, we're only missing you."

Peter smirked and nodded. "Of course I'm in. Now we have to decide who is fighting. Shall we meet in an hour?"


Edmund stood by the entrance of the How, using the cover of the shadows to study the enemy army before him.

He would always remain faithful of his people but still, the sea of enemy soldiers was discouraging. Also, it worried him that, for the first time since he became king, he wasn't being able to block out his feelings until the whole affair was over, and was therefore analyzing the battle before him with his heart, rather than his mind.

He used to argue about it with Susan, too. To Susan, war was an unnecessary ordeal in which families were lost and innocent risked their lives merely for the reason that their leaders didn't seem to be able to get their crap together. Edmund got her point, he really did, but while Susan hadn't really been able to fight in wars before because of her pacifist nature, Edmund had learned to ignore the unfairness of the situation. Not because he wanted to, of course, but because he felt the obligation. In order to be the leader his people needed, he felt he had to be cold-headed while at war.

Still, as he analyzed the Telmarine army, which was setting camp by the treeline, he found himself thinking about the duel, and how he did not want to volunteer for it. He wished he wanted to, he wished his first instinct was to fight in order to spare the other four possible candidates because if he was to die, then he would die happily of knowing he had done everything in his power to save his loved ones.

The horrible, selfish truth, was that he didn't want to die.

During his second journey through Narnia, he had come to know what it was like to love someone and what it was to be loved in return. It sounded silly, even to him, but the love that he felt for Beth was one that couldn't be deterred, one that burned within him, giving him the determination to fight through anything if it meant they'd be together by the end. Now that he knew what it was like to live without that love, he never wanted to experience that again. He wanted to live a life as filled with love as possible.

Edmund snorted with exasperation as he came to realize the extent of his love for the Archenlandian princess. Of course he would realize it just before a bloody battle.

To be fair, though, he's fourteen. His timing was meant to be off from time to time.

Suddenly, he was being pulled back into the shadows, Peter's voice whispering harshly next to his ear. "What do you think you're doing? They have archers with them, you know better than to stand in plain eyesight!"

Edmund shrugged him off, straightening his clothes as he threw his older brother a dirty look. "Will you chill, already? I doubt any archer would be able to reach me."

"Well, you don't know for sure, so let's just not risk it, okay?" Peter replied in a nonsense tone before gesturing towards the inside of the How. "We have to go anyways, we have a meeting to get to."

Edmund nodded, but refrained from moving as he bit his lip doubtfully. "Hey Pete?"

Peter stopped walking and turned back towards his brother. "What is it?"

"I..." Edmund began, clearing his throat, before laughing nervously. "I'm so sorry, I just guess there's no easy way to say this."

Peter barely held from scoffing. He had seen it coming from a mile away and he was surprised Edmund hadn't too. Then, the older brother walked back towards the younger one and rested his hands on top of his shoulders as he smiled. "You don't want to fight, do you?"

Edmund gulped, his eyes opened wide as he still took in the sudden realization he'd had. Still, he managed to shake his head, unconsciously biting his lips. "I...I really don't. I'm so sorry but I just...Beth told me she still loves me and I can't lose her, not again. I know I should be volunteering myself but I-."

"Ed, that's enough," Peter cut him off, his posture a determined one, even when Edmund looked at him with panic written all over his face. "Really, you thought I didn't know this already? I haven't experienced a love like the one you guys have, so I can't understand you completely, but what I do know is that when you were with her, you were your best, liveliest' self and when you weren't, you suffered tremendously. I won't let you lose her again either."

Edmund took a step backwards, his hands raised defensively, as if too scared of talking about this. "How can you be so understanding? I'm the best at duels, Peter, I should be the one fighting! I'm being really selfish here!"

Peter nodded with an understanding smile.

"You are, yes, but I'm not looking at this situation from the perspective of a monarch," Peter replied, his voice still calmed and unfazed. "I'm looking at it from the perspective of your older brother, just like you're analyzing this from the perspective of a person who's in love. I won't let you be so idiotic that you lose that love again."

Edmund took a deep breath before replying, his voice small. "Do you think she'll take me back?"

"I think that she will if you make it clear you aren't running away out of fear again," Peter shrugged before smirking. "Ed, I'm with you through anything, you know that, but Beth isn't the kind of girl you can just love when convenient for you. You need to be decent to her."

Edmund nodded, taking his words into serious consideration. Then, he perked up, his eyes glinting with amusement. "Look at you, giving all this love advice, you should make a career out of it."

Peter rolled his eyes and pushed him inside. "C'mon wise ass, we're being expected."


My dear Robin,

I don't really know where to begin.

For the first time since I was separated from you, I'm actually glad you aren't here.

We're on the edge of war. The Telmarines have found us and it's only a matter of time before the last battle begins. If I'm being honest, this is so terrifying for me that the only comfort I've managed to encounter is the knowledge that whatever happens to me, you're safe, back in England with our mom, and that no harm can reach either of you anymore.

For more than two years, ever since I settled in Anvard, I was ridden with guilt, because I thought I left you two unprotected with the man I thought was my father. I now know it...him, wasn't my fault, but still, for every time I felt happiness here, I was instantly reminded that your fate was uncertain to me, and it filled me with complete regret.

Six weeks ago, I found out that he also travelled between worlds, just like I did. While I left England for Archenland and later Narnia, he made his way to the Shadowlands, a most dreadful land poisoned with pure, unfiltered hatred and darkness.

All in all, this past few weeks have been life-changing. Jack managed to get into Narnia with the only objective to hurt the ones I love. Edmund almost died because of him, and because he wanted me to achieve my True Nature.

Crap, sorry. I should have explained that earlier. I'm still having a hard time trying to wrap my head around it, so I guess that's why I struggle with discussing it so much. The thing is, my real father isn't Jack, but Aslan, the Great Lion of Narnia.

Yeah, I know. I don't have any idea of how that happened either.

I'm slowly finding out more about my legacy and my identity but what I know is that my powers are limited, except for when my True Nature is active. Now, when that happens...I guess it's similar to Aang from the Avatar series, when he enters the Avatar' state (I'm assuming you've watched the series already. If not, watch it. That's an order from your older sister). I also know that my duty is to help Narnia, just like my father, and that I'm the true heir to the Narnian throne, just like Caspian is the true heir to the Telmarine' one.

That last bit complicates things a little bit as me becoming queen was never something we factored in (not that I want to become queen, of course), so we are all trying to ignore it as best as possible until the war is over. However, it does make me a Narnian royal, which in turn makes you and mom a Lord and Lady respectively. If you guys are anything like me, the idea of having people attending to your every need would be uncomfortable to you but I still wish I could send you every comfort and luxury I've enjoyed in Archenland and that I'll enjoy in Narnia if everything goes well. You guys deserve the world, after all, while I don't really need any of this stuff.

Anyways, I want to make it clear that I don't care who my biological parents may be. My family is in you and mom, and it is in my Narnian and Archenlandian friends. I don't want to get melancholic but I love you two with every single inch of my heart and, if this turns out to be my last letter, I want you to always remember that.

I need to get ready for a war council so I will stop this letter here. Robin, promise me you'll live the fullest, most joyful life you can manage. Know that I've always been proud of you and that, no matter where I am, I carry you with me, always.

Take care of yourself.

Beth.

Beth stared at the words she had just finished writing with a heavy heart. If she had to choose what was about wartime that she hated the most, that was the inevitability of thinking about death. It was the uncertainty of not knowing what was going to happen the one thing that unnerved her the most, and the one thing that made her want to march over to Miraz's tent and challenge him into a duel herself.

She then wondered whether that was it. Whether she would survive the battle to come. Life was unfair, so she knew that thinking it wasn't her time or that it wasn't fair for her to leave so soon was useless. Right then and there, Beth could only hope that she had done enough, not only as a princess and as a leader, but also as a sister, as a friend, and as a girlfriend.

Had she been enough for them? Had she been enough source of happiness? Or had she only been a source of drama and anxiety?

Beth grazed Robin's name at the top of the page with her fingertips. If her hour had come, she could only hope her letters could express her brother the endless love she felt for him. She could only hope Adrien didn't despair. She hoped she would get to say goodbye should she die, so everybody she cared for knew how much she loved them.

"Are you okay?"

Beth looked up towards the entrance of her room, smiling when her gaze fell on Lucy. "Of course I am."

Lucy smiled understandingly as she sat beside her best friend. "I'll assume this letter wasn't as happy as the last one."

Beth barked a laugh before sighing and cradling the letter to her chest. "Do you think we will survive?

"Of course we will, Beth." Lucy replied with a hopeful smile, her voice, however, tinted with concern. "Aslan is coming, remember?"

Beth smiled a little at that, refusing to meet Lucy's eyes as she admitted, "I wished I had more faith in Him, like you do. It would make things so easier."

Lucy leaned back in shock. "But He's your father! And, before, when you agreed with me that we had to look for Aslan, didn't you have faith for him there? You agreed with me before any of the others did!"

"Oh sweetheart, I had faith in you," Beth shook her head as she released an amused chuckle. She turned towards a surprised Lucy with a small smile. "For the last two years, I've read about you guys, what you did for Narnia and what you did for each other. Without you, none of this would have been possible. Without you, your siblings and yourself wouldn't have come to Narnia, you wouldn't have stopped the White Witch and now...Caspian and I probably wouldn't be here. I have faith in Aslan, of course, but Lu, I have infinitely more faith in you."

Lucy smiled tearfully at that, not used to being given so much faith. Of course, her role in the discovery of Narnia was acknowledged but, sometimes it felt as if her importance to Narnia had stopped there. After all, when in comparison to her warrior siblings, how was she any remarkable?

Beth's words were soothing because, for the first time in a while, she could see how she, and her faith, had helped those around her. Still, she had gone to that room with a particular concern so, resting a hand on Beth's, she asked with a small voice. "You're not angry that I was asked to find Him, then?"

Beth frowned. "Why would I be?"

"Because He is your father."

Beth laughed again and wrapped an arm around the younger girl's shoulder. "Lu, my family is here. You, Adrien, and the others. Ersan, in Archenland, is my family. Robin and my mom, in England, are my family. You have always been the most faithful when it comes to Aslan and now, your rightful place tomorrow is being the one who finds Him. My place is here, battling for my people."

Lucy smiled in relief and hugged the older girl. "You're my family too, Beth. I think you deserve everything and truthfully, that means someone better than my idiot brother."

Beth pulled back, glaring at Lucy good-naturedly. "What did I tell you about getting involved in that? Edmund's your brother, you shouldn't be going against him."

Lucy scoffed and waved a hand dismissively. "Of course I should! It is my rightful job as a younger sister to call him out whenever he does something idiotic and breaking up with you, especially since he clearly loves you, was the mother of all poor choices."

"I don't think what he did was stupid. He was protecting himself and really, he was wise to do so." Beth left the folded letter beside her on the cot before clasping her hands together on her lap and shrugging. "I'm dangerous right now, you know? Like, I'm still the same but the poison I carry within me could be too much for me any minute now. I could wake up one day and be weakened by it or due to literally anything else, and the poison would finally be my undoing. I feel like an idiot for letting you guys get so close to me, specially Adrien. I could explode at any time, and hurt all of you at the same time. Really, the best thing you guys can do is take some distance from me until I talk to Aslan and discover a way to cure myself."

Lucy crossed her arms stubbornly, glaring at her friend as she in turn looked at the Valiant Queen with pleading eyes. "I'm not leaving you, Beth."

Beth sighed with defeat, her shoulders dropping. "Lu, c'mon, you know-."

"What? That it's the best for me?" Lucy rebutted before shaking her head. "I disagree. You're my sister and I'm not leaving my family behind, no matter what. That includes you. You're my sister, I love you and I'm standing by you. Deal with it."

Beth rubbed her fingers against her temples, as if fighting away a headache, before looking at Lucy with fond exasperation. "I love you too, you know?"

Lucy rolled her eyes. "You wear your heart on your sleeve, Beth. Of course I know."

"You're a real riot, you know?"

"Am I interrupting?"

Both Lucy and Beth turned their heads sharply towards the entrance, startled by the sudden interruption. Edmund, who had been the one to ask, jumped at little at their reaction, his arms raising in surrender. "I'm sorry. I didn't mean to startle you."

"Would it kill you to knock?" Lucy demanded as she raised from her seat, her arms crossed as she looked at her brother with a murderous glare.

Edmund regarded his sister carefully, his eyebrows raising at Lucy's harsh tone. "...but there's no door."

Lucy opened her mouth to retaliate but Beth cut her off as she raised from her seat as well. She tucked the letter carefully with the other ones before placing a hand on Lucy's shoulder.

"As much as I'd love to witness this little quarrel of yours, we don't have the time," Beth intervened before looking at Edmund with an expressionless look. "I suppose you're here about the meeting. Are the others gathered?"

Edmund shook his head as he clasped his hands behind her back. "Susan is looking for Caspian so I thought I should look for you."

"And Peter?" Lucy asked.

Edmund rolled his eyes. "Probably expecting us already, if I know the control freak as much as I think I do."

"Let's go then," Beth quipped before exiting her room and walking down the corridor. Edmund and Lucy ran to catch up with her, each positioning themselves on either side of her. As neither Edmund nor Lucy had put on any sort of armour yet, their bright, Narnian clothes contrasted drastically against Beth's dark chainmail, her pale green dress peeking from underneath.

They walked in silence for a few moments until, all of a sudden, Lucy perked up, clearly having realized something. She turned her head right to look at her companions. "Hey, it's interesting what you said about Susan. The fact that she volunteered to look for Caspian."

By then, they had arrived to a narrow part of the corridor. Edmund motioned Beth to go first before looking at Lucy with a small smirk. "You've turned into quite the gossip, you know?"

Lucy shrugged evilly as Edmund went through the narrow passage next. "I don't know brother, all I'm saying is that war's just around the corner, so time is running out for them to figure out what they want. Maybe that's on Susan's mind and, really, it should be in yours too."

For a few moments, silence enveloped the trio, all of them motionless on either side of the narrow passage.

At last, Lucy frowned as she called. "You did understand what I meant, right?"

"Lu, you're as subtle as a bullet," Beth replied from the other side, her voice laced with annoyance. "Everyone got it."


Susan had never had to fight for love.

As shallow as it may sound, she'd become used to having all sorts of men fawning over her because of her beauty, her grace and her status since she was old enough to court. At the time, she had yet to encounter anyone who would actively try to harm her, so she'd kept her heart wide open, believing all of those attentions to be true.

Then, Rabadash came into her life.

It is said a person lives three lives. The first one ends with the loss of naivety. The second with the loss of innocence and the third with the loss of life itself.

For Susan, meeting Rabadash was the loss of naivety. It was learning that no one, not even the most powerful queen, is exempt from danger and fear. It was the beginning of a process of change, one that led to her toughening her skin so no one could ever hurt her again.

It had been easy, to tell the truth. After all, Susan didn't really need that aspect of her life. Without the constant attentions thrown in her way, she found the time to be a better queen, a better warrior, and a better sister. Of course, she knew that closing off her heart wasn't the healthy way to go, but - at least for the moment - sheltering herself made her happier so she eventually managed to move on.

Then, during their second trip to Narnia, she woke up one day with both Peter and Lucy missing. She ran through the Narnian forest with Edmund and Trumpkin, and ended up finding the Narnians, along with their extremely handsome leader.

Falling for him had been easy. Not at all something she decided, but something that just happened. What it was ultimately her decision was what she would do about it.

So, for the following months to that meeting, really, a battle had been ongoing within her. A battle between her mind and her heart, a battle between her fear and her heart's desire.

A struggle that was now different, for the Telmarines had found them, and it was time for the Last Battle.

Hence, she had volunteered to find Caspian under the pretense of getting him to the meeting. Still, as he pondered the idea of talking to him, of admitting her feelings, her fear began to gain strength, a fear that, as she finally reached his room, made her stand just before the entrance, frozen to her very core.

When Caspian exited his room a few minutes later, he frowned in confusion at the petrified queen. "Are you okay?"

Susan hesitated as she stared right into his eyes before shaking her head and pushing him back inside. She walked towards the other end of the room anxiously while Caspian waited for her to speak standing next to the entrance, his concern and confusion growing by the second.

At last, Susan turned towards the prince, her voice almost pleading. "I need you not to judge me, no matter what I say next."

Caspian could not be more confused. He took an hesitant step towards her, his eyebrows furrowed, even as he nodded his agreement. "Of course. What is going on?"

Susan stared at him for a long, silent moment, as she took a deep breath, debating how to approach the subject, how to make herself understood, while also figuring out what did she need in that moment as she stood there, looking at the man she had fallen for, her feelings about to burst.

Caspian stared back at her, clearly waiting for her to wrap her mind around whatever was going on, and that took the edge off her nerves a little bit. What she was about to do, she couldn't fathom something as terrifying. Wars, she could deal with. Her queenly duties, she was a natural at them. Now, when it came to opening up her heart, that was a whole different story.

Still, knowing he would accept anything she had to say, knowing he would support her no matter what, knowing he would never be anything but gentle to her, that reassured Susan with the knowledge that she was making the right choice.

So she straightened, her voice wavering slightly as she felt herself more vulnerable than ever before. "Fear has ruled my entire life for as long as I can remember. The fear of losing my father and of having to be a mother to my siblings when I was a kid myself tainted my childhood. The fear of never coming back to Narnia cracked my faith in Aslan so utterly that it led me to despair. The fear of being hurt again...after Rabadash...it led me to put up walls, walls that have kept me together all this years, but walls that have left me even more vulnerable whenever I've tried to break them down. Fear has ruled the relationship between you and me, so everything has seemed to keep us apart. I-."

"No," Caspian shook his head, making his way towards the Gentle Queen. It was only when he cradled one of her hands with his own and used his other one to wipe her tears away that she noticed how shaken she had become for finally voicing her feelings. "Do not take the blame from me, okay? I was afraid too, of failing my people, failing my friends and failing you. When I learned the truth about my father, I broke, and it is no justification to how I treated you and Beth and the others. I don't deserve you, Su, not after everything I've done. You're so good, so...bright. You manage to make everything better, just by being there, and you deserve the very best. I can't stand in the way of that."

This is probably the moment in which Susan should have thought of how she didn't want what was best for her, but how she wanted him.

The truth was, that if she had learned anything from her life in both worlds, Narnia and England, it was that shame was useless. Everybody made mistakes, and it was how they grew because of them, how they made amends what actually mattered. She had studied Caspian during the weeks following the White Witch' incident, and she had seen how devoted he had become to improving himself, for his friends and for his people. The new friendship he had with Peter, the kindness, patience and understanding he had shown to Lucy and to herself, the respect he had granted Edmund while the latter processed his rightful anger, and even the long talks he had with Beth about both of their pasts once they regained their friendship; Susan knew that had all been part of his attempt to become a better person, one that learned from his mistakes and never made them again.

In Susan's opinion, he had succeeded with flying colours.

So, in truth, the thing was that he wasn't the best for her but, in a world where nothing was granted, in which everything could be taken away from her in the split of a second, in which a battle was looming over them, she didn't need the best.

She needed a person as damaged as her, she needed someone who would accept anything she had to say, even if they were in complete disagreement. She needed someone she knew she could confide about all of her fears.

She needed someone who could be her friend and her person.

Caspian had been all of that from the start.

So she cradled his face in her hands, her entire body warming up with love when he subconsciously leaned rested his cheek on them. "I have let my fear rule my entire life. I won't allow it anymore. Not when it comes to us."

There are all sorts of first kisses.

For Susan, this one wasn't an epic kiss, or the type of kiss that would be shown in movies with some romantic setting in the back while the most lovey-dovey song was played.

It wasn't a perfect kiss either, for neither of them were too experienced, but for Susan, oh, for Susan it was one of the happiest moments of her life.

Kissing Caspian felt like arriving home after a long day. It meant comfort, the comfort of being with the person she'd fallen for, the comfort of knowing she was loved in return. That kiss meant the end of weeks in which she had struggled with concealed feelings but, most of all, that kiss meant hope, hope that she wouldn't be hurt again now that her walls had began to fall down little by little.

That kiss was knowing that, for the first time in her life, she loved someone, and that someone loved her back. It was knowing she was in the possession of a love that wouldn't be damaging towards her, but all the opposite.

When they finally pulled away, Susan rested her forehead against Caspian's and bit her lip as she rejoiced in the feeling of the privacy the closed door gave them, the warmth seeping from Caspian's tall frame, and the way she was being held so lovingly.

And when she finally opened her eyes, she looked right into Caspian's dark orbs, her voice light and clear, her fear finally conquered. "I love you, Caspian."

Caspian smiled joyfully, but his eyes remained dubious. "Are you sure, Susan? I don't want you to feel pressured because of the incoming war-."

"Caspian," Susan cut him off as she took a step closer to him, standing impossibly closer to the prince. The fabric of her battle dress brushed against Caspian's legs as Susan encircled her arms around his neck slowly, her eyes always on his. "I don't know what is going to happen to us or to Narnia but I love you. I've loved you for a long time, I think, and I didn't want to spend another minute without you knowing. Can you believe me?"

For an answer, Caspian leaned down and brushed his lips softly against her in a manner so loving that left Susan breathless as her heart began to thud in her chest. After a few moments, Caspian leaned back with a happy, relaxed grin. "I can believe it. Do you believe me if I tell you I love you?"

Susan cocked her head thoughtfully, her smile widening. "I don't know. I think I'll have to be convinced."

Caspian's smile turned playful. "Does my queen have any suggestions as to how can she be convinced?"

Susan shrugged. "I guess you will just have to surprise me."

"I'm sure I'll manage to find some way," Caspian whispered, already leaning down to kiss her again.


When Peter made it to the Stone Table Room, the other five were already in deep argument. Realizing it would probably be the only time he could hear what they had to say about the incoming war without any sort of fake bravado, he hurried to hide behind a stone pillar just as Susan stood up from the steps leading to the Stone Table.

"They are going to betray us anyways, why do we have to fight?" Susan demanded. "Why can't we just catch Miraz with his guard down and kill him? We're going to have to battle the Telmarines anyways!"

"And have Caspian be an usurper?" Edmund retorted in disbelief. "Continue the tradition of treason amongst telmarines?"

Caspian, who was standing besides Susan rolled his eyes at the Just King. "Thanks for that."

From besides Edmund, Lucy turned towards Beth to see what she had to say, frowning with concern when she noticed the princess was looking at Aslan's carving, her mind clearly elsewhere. "Beth, what is it?"

"I don't think we should do the dishonourable thing right now, but I wish there was another way to defeat them," Beth replied tiredly. She turned to look at Lucy with a sheepish smile, regretting having worried her. "Adrien is freaking out over this. First the whole poison' drama and now, the duel. He just fears I will leave him alone and I don't really know how to console him."

Caspian sighed and shook his head. "Well, we're at war. What can you really say other than 'I'll make my best to come back to you'?"

Beth raised her arms in defeat as she laughed humourlessly. "Right? I mean, I really hate that I'm dumping all of this on you, guys, but what the hell do I say to a little kid who lost his entire family to the same enemy that now waits just outside our doorstep?"

The others were silent, all of them lacking any words of wisdom or any advice that would actually help the princess. Beth sighed again, aware that she would have to figure it out on her own, and turned around to look at the carving of her father again.

Then, Edmund intervened. He cleared his throat nervously and raised his arms in a defensive manner when Beth turned towards him with a pointed glare.

"I'm not saying you can't fight, okay? I've learned that the hard way," Edmund began hesitatingly, yet indifferent to Beth's warning glare. "But Adrien comes first. If you're worried about leaving him, then maybe you shouldn't fight against Miraz."

The other three rushedly backed away from the pair as Beth narrowed her eyes threateningly, her usual kind golden orbs burning with rage. When she finally replied, her voice was quiet, filled with venomous anger. "Is that so? Then why are you still a candidate when you have two sisters and a brother? You need to get this idea out of your head that I'm somehow worthy of being looked after as if I was extremely breakable. You are fighting, so am I, and that's the last I want to hear about it, okay?"

Edmund huffed with annoyance. "This isn't about that! You know that I consider you the strongest girl I know but I don't want you to keep making sacrifices!"

Caspian tried to intervene, but Susan lay a restraining hand on her chest. "Sweetheart, if you don't let them lash out at each other, they're going to lash out at you. You and I just got together and I'd like to keep my boyfriend unscathed for as long as possible. Keep your mouth shut."

Beth was ignorant to them, or to the amused look Lucy sported as she glanced between her brother and her best friend. The princess only had eyes for Edmund, who regained his confidence as the frustration he felt towards Beth washed over him.

"Sacrifices? They are my people just as much as they are yours! I get that we're still friends so you feel the need to be concerned about me but today, right now, we aren't normal teenagers looking out for each other, we're both Narnian' monarchs and it is our duty to think of our people first! Of course this situation is completely horrible but we need to get it over so please, let's just get on with it." Beth snapped harshly before glancing at Lucy with wild eyes. "Where's Peter anyways?"

Peter had heard enough. He stepped away from his hiding spot, his resolve finally determined. "I'm fighting."

Susan turned towards him with a disbelieving look. "What?"

Besides her, Caspian shook his head adamantly. "No, you're not. I am."

Lucy sighed and exchanged a glance with Edmund. "I feel like we've been here before."

"I can't let any of you guys fight, not when you have so much going on for you," Peter explained kindly, holding up a hand when the five leaders standing before him opened their mouths to argue. "I'm the High King and, like Beth said, it's a monarch's utmost responsibility to protect their people. Besides, I'm the monarch with the most seniority, so the Telmarines are bound to respect me more than any of you."

Caspian was having none of it. He crossed his arms stubbornly and glared at Peter. "What will the Telmarines think about me when they see you fighting on my behalf?"

"They will think that you're doing the sensible thing, Cas," Beth replied instead, her eyes still on Peter. "This is a duel to the death. The heir to the throne can't fight."

At that, Edmund smirked at Beth victoriously. "That rules you out too. You're the heir to the Narnian throne."

Beth scoffed exasperatedly as she glanced at Edmund. "Bold of you to assume I'm going to be Queen."

"Enough with the bickering, you two," Susan cut their quickly evolving argument before centering her attention back on her older brother. "Peter, we need to discuss this further. You also have a life, and certainly too much going on for you to give it up so willingly!"

Peter smiled genuinely at that and took his sister's hands into his.

"I've seen you become a whole new version of yourself. A happier, more open one and though I still find Caspian extremely annoying, I know I have him to thank for that," Peter replied softly, his eyes moving from his sister to his brother. "Ed, the same goes for you. You're so happy, and I can't let you squander that."

By then, the six of them stood in a makeshift circle. To Peter and Susan's left, Caspian shook his head stubbornly. "Peter, I appreciate it, despite of the me being annoying' part, but this is really unnecessary. I should be out there, proving myself."

Beth nodded in agreement from Caspian's left, and crossed her arms.

"Or me. There are no rules against me using my True Nature during the duel," she commented before smirking. "I'd like to see how Miraz plans to defeat me there."

In front of her, Edmund rolled his eyes, his lips pulled into a scowl. "You aren't half as funny as you think you are."

To Edmund's right, Lucy copied her best friend's posture and frowned at her brother. "Because you are?"

Peter ignored the ongoing quarrel as he turned towards the heirs to the Narnian and Telmarine' thrones. "The same way I can't let any of my siblings fight while I stay by the sidelines, I can't let you two fight either. You two turned out to be two of the missing parts in the puzzle that's our family and I won't risk breaking you guys apart. You love my brother and sister in the deep, honest way they deserve to be loved. They deserve the world and, if that means you two, then I'm safeguarding you two as well."

For several moments, nothing was heard as the other five took in the meaning of the words the High King had spoken. For a person so cynical, so serious, to be the one who not only pulled some sense into their minds but also, the one who was brave enough to speak about the obvious feelings they had towards one another, whether those had been previously admitted or not, it made them all too shocked to utter any sort of response.

Finally, Lucy was the one who replied, her voice soft as she uncrossed her arms. "I can't believe it but you've managed to justify yet another of your decisions based on overprotectiveness."

Edmund snorted a chuckle as he turned towards his little sister. "I was thinking about that. This time he actually nailed it, wouldn't you say?"

Meanwhile, Susan had been studying Peter carefully, almost as if trying to figure out whether he was teasing them by being so understanding. When she realized he was being completely serious, she smiled softly. "Pete, this isn't fair to you. You have to know it isn't."

Beth nodded at Susan in agreement. "Susan's right. To continue with the corny metaphor you used, you're a part of that puzzle too, Pete, as essential as the rest of us are."

Peter smirked. "Beth, please. I'm the legendary High King of Narnia. I'd love to see Miraz try to beat me."

Peter then set his gaze on each of the monarchs present, making sure they all agreed with him. One by one, they all seemed to deflate, as if accepting the decision made, and knowing they had nothing left but to wait for further commands.

"Now that that's decided," Lucy commented with a frown, "We also need to decide who's going to Miraz to challenge him."

"Well, that one's easy," Caspian shrugged instantly.

Susan frowned at him. "What do you mean?"

With a chuckle, Caspian turned towards the Archenlandian princess, his eyes amused for some reason. "Beth, do you want to explain it? I remember you had quite the colourful opinion on this Telmarine' tradition."

"Caspian, if you appreciate me at all, you will spare me of explaining that misogynistic' tradition. I seethe even from thinking about it," Beth hissed as she rolled her eyes, shaking her head when Lucy turned towards her with an inquisitive look.

"Telmarines do not talk to a woman about the matters of war," Caspian explained, his voice growing careful as he studied the reactions of the two Queens of Old. "To them, women are necessary to produce the heir and to look after the next generation while the men rule so, discussing something they cherish as deeply as they cherish war with women is considered to be beneath men. Only Ed or I can go."

Silence was made between the group again, yet for different reasons this time. Susan and Lucy turned towards Beth as if looking for confirmation, their eyes darkening when Beth only nodded moodily and sulked with anger. Meanwhile, the three boys eyed the three girls carefully, expecting an outburst any moment, and preparing themselves to withstand it.

Finally, Lucy laughed humorlessly. "Well, that's just...I don't even know what to say. As if you men knew so much about everything and anything."

Susan straightened and crossed her arms with pride. "I quite agree with you. I don't want to think of how many times our brothers would have been doomed during the Golden Age if it wasn't for us. Especially during wars."

"I know what you guys mean," Beth huffed in response. "Like, really, I feel like one of our main tasks has been keeping this three from fighting over some stupid matter or the other."

That seemed to be too much for Edmund, for he turned towards the princess with an unimpressed look. "You're hilarious. You're the Queen of sassing' comments, Beth."

"Ah, but I'm a woman, Ed," Beth replied with a smirk. "I get to be petty and sarcastic."

Sensing yet another argument between the pair, Peter cleared his throat softly and shoot them a pointed glance when they turned towards him. "Perhaps we should get back to business. I think we should send Ed. After all, he's the one who has the most experience with diplomatic meetings."

Caspian, Susan and Lucy nodded immediately, knowing there was no one better than cunning Edmund when it came to discussing with their enemy. Then, slowly, the three of them, plus Peter and Edmund, turned towards Beth, who was staring at the ground.

As if sensing eyes on her, Beth looked up and frowned when she noticed the expectant glances. "Why is everybody looking at me?"

Lucy shrugged with an innocent smile. "I couldn't help but think you had something to say."

"Well, I don't," Beth countered, ignoring her increasingly red cheeks. "I agree, too."

"Really?" Edmund blurted out, his eyebrows raising in surprise.

"Sweetheart, I told you before," Beth replied emotionlessly, a cynical smirk on her lips. "I won't keep you from performing your duty. Narnia needs us."


As Edmund stood on his own by the main entrance of the How, waiting for Glenstorm and Wimbleweather to join him so they could cross to the enemy camp, his thoughts - to the surprise of no one - wandered over to Beth.

The past six weeks, it felt as if he had been witnessing the blossoming of a Beth he had never encountered until then. Of course, he knew she was brave, selfless and generally amazing ever since the day he lay eyes on her but still, the Beth he had come to know most recently was one focused on her tasks, her responsibilities and her people. She amazed him because, while dealing with their breakup, the increasingly stressing situation of their revolution, and the trauma of having seen the man who mistreated her for years on end; she still managed to leave all of that aside in order to be the best leader Narnia had ever known.

Really, Beth put Edmund to shame because, while she thrived and became a respected and beloved leader, the Just King could hardly deal with his exponentially growing feelings for the princess.

Edmund had broken up with her to give the two some time to think it all through, to allow her to breath and toughen up before resuming their relationship, to protect her from any harm or weakness while Jack remained a present threat.

For weeks, that had been his thinking. But, while Beth had seemingly moved on, Edmund had fallen even deeper in love with her so, it made no surprise that he had started analyzing every word spoken to him by the princess, in the hopes of finding even the slightest clue that she missed him too.

Then, the day before, Beth told him she loved him too, even if she couldn't trust him.

And it was those words that seemed to be repeating themselves over and over in his mind.

As he walked from one end to the other of the entrance, he felt hope and doubt inching their way through his every cell, his every vein, his every breath, and he realized then and there that hope was the worst thing. After all, hope stood in the way between him and the process of finally moving on from the best relationship he'd ever had, from the only relationship he'd screwed up.

Hope was still there because, even after Beth's admission, even after her attitude towards him, even with the walls she had seemingly put around her heart once again, he still was willing to work to make Beth trust him once again.

As he began to feel despairingly frustrated, Edmund turned towards the green landscape before him, trying to find any heavy object he could throw dramatically in order to calm himself down but then, he heard steps approaching his way so, with hidden hope, he turned back towards the entrance behind him.

When he noticed it was a sheepish Caspian the one approaching him, and not the princess he had been hoping for, Edmund didn't mask a growl before turning back to glance in the direction of the enemy army by the other side of the clearing.

"I see you were expecting somebody else," Caspian commented as he stood besides the King. He crossed his arms before his chest, his eyes also on the enemy. "I'm sorry to disappoint you."

Edmund sighed. "What do you want, Caspian?"

"I was hoping we could talk, actually," Caspian admitted. "With the final battle coming and everything, I've realized you are the only one I haven't made amends with."

"So you had to corner me while I'm about to head to the enemy's headquarters on a diplomatic mission," Edmund retorted with a scoff before sighing moodily. "Look, Caspian, it's over, okay? Everything's in the past. Let's just move on."

"It's in the past, yes. I'm not sure you have forgiven me, though," Caspian stated evenly.

Edmund took a few steps forward, taking deep breaths in order not to explode from anger. When that didn't work, he groaned before turning to glare at Caspian. "You were my brother, Caspian! I stood by your side while Peter attacked you time and time again! I helped you with the Narnians, hell, I even helped you get closer with Susan! How could you even consider bringing her back!?"

Caspian shook his head, bravely looking into Edmund's eyes. "I don't know. I know I was desperate. I know Miraz's words impacted me deeply and I took it out on all of you when none of it was your fault. I know I was torn up with guilt at the possibility of me having caused the raid to fail. Still, I should have never listened to Nikabrik. Not even a thousand evil uncles are worthy of even considering bringing her back and I have no justification. Ed, I'm so sorry."

Edmund studied him for a second before sighing and rubbing a hand across his face. Then, he shrugged. "I would be hypocrite if I didn't forgive you. Everyone deserves a second chance after all. Besides, it would suck not to be invited to yours and Susan's wedding because I was holding a grudge."

Caspian smiled at that, his chest finally completely free from all anguish. He hesitated for a second but soon, his urge overcame his restraint, and he found himself embracing his best friend tightly. "Thank you, Ed. I won't let you down again. I promise."

Edmund patted his back in a brotherly manner before stepping out of the embrace and smiling at Caspian. "I know you won't. Susan would kill you."

"You're most certainly right about that," Caspian chuckled. The two men stood side by side, their eyes on the Narnian forest before them. Silence overruled for a moment but then, Caspian took the opportunity their newly regained friendship brought him, and blurted, "Can I ask you a question?"

Edmund's posture was suddenly defensive. "I can't help but think you'll ask me anyway so, go ahead."

"You were hoping I was Beth," Caspian began, softening his voice as he recognized the pain in Edmund's eyes. "Why? I thought you weren't going to try to get back together with her."

"After yesterday's meeting, I exited the room and I...," Edmund trailed off before chuckling humorlessly. "It was the first time I admitted to anyone but myself how I felt about her, after the break-up, I mean. I didn't want to harm her further, and I didn't want to look like a moron, so I hid everything with the vain hope that it my lingering feelings would disappear."

"So you told her you love her, then," Caspian stated. He glanced at Edmund curiously. "How did she take that?"

"I'm surprised she didn't knock me out," Edmund replied with sadness. "I don't know, I just feel I screwed up so badly, you know? Like, she's already so worried about Jack and the war and Adrien and I had to be a coward and leave her when she needed me the most. I'm such an idiot, Caspian, like really, I should be studied or something."

Caspian chuckled at that. "I'm not the best person to judge, Ed. I've made mistakes too."

"But you stepped up," Edmund retorted. "You became who Su needed you to be. You even have Peter's approval, for Aslan's sake. What have I done during this past six weeks? I've sulked, marvel at the amazing leader Beth is, and fall even deeper in love with her. I suck."

"Well, then you need to step up too," Caspian offered in return. "Look, I know how it feels, being anxious of making amends as soon as possible. I've been there but Ed, rushing is not the way. Beth loves you, that much is obvious. Now, you need to show her you're staying with her, even if things get scary. That, my friend, takes time."

"I fear I've lost my chance with her. What if she doesn't trust me, no matter what I do?" Edmund's voice was small, his usual confident posture gone. His eyes were fixed on the ground under his feet.

"We'll have to see about that."

Both leaders turned instantly, Edmund blushing and Caspian paling when they noticed Beth standing behind them. Her hands were linked together behind her back, her armour and weapons securely placed on their respective places, and her golden eyes were inexpressive as they went from Caspian to Edmund.

"Right," Caspian finally quipped, his eyes fluttering nervously from the princess to the king. Innerly wondering whether this was the last he would be seeing of Edmund - if Beth had anything to do with it, that is -, Caspian clasped Edmund on the shoulder in what he hoped was a reassuring gesture. "Well, I'd wish you good luck with Miraz but I know you don't need it. I'll see you when you get back, Ed."

"Thanks, Cas," Edmund smiled lightly, his eyes still on Beth.

Refraining from saying anything to Beth, Caspian nodded to himself and walked past the princess, soon leaving the two of them on their own.

"How much did you hear?" Edmund finally asked weakly.

"Enough," Beth answered in a non committal manner. Tense silence hung between them as both of them thought of how to say everything they wanted to say to each other. Finally, Beth cocked her head inquiringly. "I didn't know you were afraid I had moved on."

"Of course I am," Edmund replied. His eyes were pleading, his love for her pouring out of him in waves. "Have you seen yourself? You've managed to overcome every single thing you had against you and you've turned into the best leader I've encountered. I mean, you're better than Peter, by now. And where do I enter in this situation? I'm now the idiot who let fear get between him and the girl he loves."

Beth shook her head at that, her eyes welling up. At once, her cool mask melt off, and her feelings surfaced rapidly. "Damn you! I never wanted to break things off with you, I loved you, even then! Also, what has changed now? You're still afraid, and I'm still the selfless moron who gives too much of herself. Nothing is different!"

"No, something is different," Edmund whispered, his throat blocked by an emotional lump. He gulped before resuming his speech. "I'm bloody petrified of losing you but now, now I have experienced what is being without you and I never want to go through that again. During this past weeks, everytime I looked at you, I was so inspired by you and all I wanted was to come up to you, kiss you and tell you that I love you. Now, now I realize that I'm selfish, because I want to be with you, and I want to face the forces that try to separate us together, rather than do the job for them. I'm not in the business of denying it any longer. I love you, Beth, and I will do everything in my power to prove you everyday that I'm not leaving you again. I don't want to rush you, but I want you to know that I'm staying by your side, no matter what."

"And if I decide that I don't need you? If I decide I want to save someone else by risking my own life again?" Beth's voice was a whisper, her breath held as she waited for his answer.

Edmund smiled sadly. "If you decide you don't need me, then I'll be your friend, just like I was before. If you risk your life again, I'll stand by your side, and I'll go through anything in order to spare you too. Beth, I'd do anything for you."

Beth blinked, tears finally rolling down her cheeks. She studied him for a few moments, convincing herself that this was happening, that he was ready, that she could believe him without being hurt again.

Then, she smiled the first honest smile she had directed at him in a few weeks. "You're such an idiot, Edmund Pevensie."

Edmund barked out a laugh, his own tears rolling down his cheeks. "The biggest idiot in Narnia."

Slowly, the two of them walked closer to each other, their hearts automatically mending as they rejoiced in the end of their time apart. Finally, Beth cradled Edmund's face with her hands, more tears falling from her eyes as she felt warmed by Edmund's love towards her. "I've missed you."

"I've missed you," Edmund replied before he gently wiped Beth's tears. His voice was a whisper, his happiness too great to be shown too obviously. "I'm so sorry, my love. I don't know how I can make it up to you."

"Well," Beth smiled lightly as she bit her lips. Then, she wrapped her arms around Edmund's neck and gently brought his face down towards her. "Luckily, we still have time to figure that one out."

And, as they kissed, it was like the world disappeared. They were together again, and that's all that mattered.


Glozelle stood by the treeline on his own, his eyes thoughtful as they studied the approaching Narnians, all of them carrying green branches as a sign of peace.

A centaur, a giant, and a boy. Yet that was no ordinary boy. That was King Edmund the Just, the cunning king of Old known for his way with words and his quick thinking.

Glozelle knew right away that the Narnians were on a diplomatic mission, and couldn't help but wish King Peter or Caspian had been chosen to approach them instead. While Miraz was undoubtedly cunning, he was also of hot temper, which, when in contrast to the famous cold Just King, Glozelle feared it would lead to catastrophe for the Telmarines.

As Glozelle felt his king standing before him, he cleared his throat nervously. "Perhaps their intention is to surrender, My Liege."

"It seems you still don't know them, Glozelle," Miraz replied. He put down the telescope he had been watching the incoming party with and turned towards his general with a contemplative look. "They are much too noble to surrender."

Glozelle straightened, innerly struggling with having to show Miraz the respect a monarch was owed. As General, he had grown to respect his superiors, to never question them. He was good at his job because he was trained under all the values a soldier stood for. Respect. Strength. Loyalty.

Still, he had always thought he would end up serving a kind king like Caspian IX, not a tyrant like Miraz. Everything Miraz was, it went against everything Glozelle looked for in a leader, and it had gotten to the point in which he didn't even know whether he wanted the Telmarines to succeed.

Sure, victory meant things would go back to normal for good but, with Miraz in charge, how good could things be?

"What are your orders, Your Majesty?" Glozelle finally asked.

"Escort them to the council' tent. No harm must come to them...for now," Miraz ordered with a slight smirk as he passed Glozelle the telescope. "Let's see what they want, shall we?"

Edmund eyed the closed tent wearily.

He had admittedly been looking forward to this meeting. With Caspian and Beth stepping up their leader' skills, Peter being the High King everyone looked up to, Susan being the undisputed archer queen, and Lucy thriving in the infirmary, Edmund had been feeling useless as of late. It was as if every skill he had, someone else possessed it as well so, at the end of the day, he wasn't actually that needed.

It felt good to be needed, and it felt good to be in charge of a diplomatic mission, as he hadn't been in one since the Golden Age. It also felt good to be once again in his armour, the red of its vest and the golden lion embroidered in its center soothing him utterly. Still, the pressure was also there, reminding him that, if their plan was to be set into motion, then he needed to succeed.

After a long moment, Edmund straightened and, ignoring the fact that the entrance of the tent had begun to look like a monster's mouth after it was opened for him, he went through it without looking back.

The sight before him was everything he expected. Three long tables had been set up by the length of the other three sides of the tent, ornamental chairs placed behind them. There wasn't much else there, as all maps and documents had been probably cleared away in order for Edmund not to see them but anyways, Edmund wasn't interested in those. He was interested in the people who followed the Telmarine Usurper.

And, boy, was there a lot to see.

Eleven men surrounded the Telmarine King, all of them wearing their armours, those of which weren't that different from Caspian's, except that his friend's armour was darker. He could feel their gazes on him as they lounged on their chairs in a clear attempt of appearing as intimidating as possible.

Edmund wasn't unnerved, though.

Because, under those neat beards, those armours; behind those scowls and cunning eyes, Edmund could see fear. Fear caused by their king, and of what he would do if he thought they were capable of betraying him. For Edmund, that meant a positive finding as no true leader could be good at their job if they relied on fear to keep their men loyal.

Miraz might have been a true telmarine, cunning and ambitious like nobody but, when it came to leading Narnia into a second Golden Age, one in which Narnians and Telmarines could co-exist peacefully, Miraz would never be able to hold a candle against Caspian and Beth.

Then, the usurper in question spoke.

"I expected many things of my life. Being honoured by the presence of the Monarchs of Old was not one of them," Miraz drawled from his throne behind the table in front of Edmund. "I assume you are Edmund the Just of Narnia."

Edmund set his eyes on Miraz, taking his time to study their enemy. He had gotten a glimpse of him, of course, back in the Telmarine castle, but it was the first time he could study his opponent as closely as he desired. Edmund immediately thought that Miraz certainly seemed to have the makings of a trained leader. The relaxed posture that comes with knowing none of your lords could ever do your job better than you and that, even if they tried, he would be able to see their move at once, as there was no man more intelligent than him.

With his dark hair and bear, his cold eyes, and his dark skin tone; to Edmund, Miraz was an older version of Caspian, had their prince been of a more evil nature. What Edmund found impressive about Miraz was that he didn't try to intimidate him, unlike his lords. Miraz knew his actions and his war' experience spoke for him, so he didn't bother trying to seem menacing or threatening. Edmund had to give it to him, Miraz would have probably been intimidating to anybody else standing where Edmund stood.

But, Edmund had faced the White Witch before he ever even laid eyes on Miraz. After Jadis, Edmund had no fear for his enemies.

After a few moments of silence, Edmund smiled politely. "And I will assume you are Lord Miraz. I am aware you met my royal brother and sister before. I apologize for my absence that night but I was otherwise occupied."

Miraz faltered at that, his eyes darkening as he caught the secret meaning of Edmund's words. The Narnian raid represented a victory for the Telmarines, of course, but it was Miraz's castle the one they got into without trouble. Miraz was a proud man, after all, and the Narnians had sneaked into their castle far deeper than he had anticipated that night, a fact that still bothered him tremendously.

"Tell me, what brings you here? I understand this is a diplomatic mission on your behalf, given by the green leaves your companions and yourself wore on your way to our camp." Miraz questioned in return, subtly changing the subject.

Edmund straightened, his right hand clutching the parchment Peter had handed to him tightly. "I come in representation of my royal brother. I bring a message, which I'm supposed to read aloud. May I begin?"

Miraz gestured for Edmund to go ahead. "By all means."

Withholding a light smirk, Edmund unrolled his parchment and began reading. "I, Peter, by the gift of Aslan, by election and by conquest, High King of Narnia, Lord of Cair Paravel, and Emperor of the Lone Islands, in order to prevent the abominable effusion of blood, do hereby challenge the usurper Miraz to single combat upon the field of battle. The reward shall be total surrender"

For a few moments, tense silence hung in that tent. The Telmarine lords glanced at their King with trepidation, fearing his outburst at being referred to as the usurper. Meanwhile, Miraz was no longer holding back his anger, and glared daggers right in Edmund's direction, trying to give himself the satisfaction of unnerving Edmund into regret.

Edmund was a professional when it came to reading people and, as much as Miraz believed himself to be the best leader, Edmund had dealt with thousands like him back in the Golden Age so he returned Miraz's glare calmly, innerly thinking about Rabadash. Sure, the man was an abusive idiot and he was glad he was dead but, when they had to face one another, Rabadash at least took himself too seriously in a manner that was laughable and ridiculous. Miraz, regrettably, gave him nothing to be amused of.

"Usurper?" Miraz finally mused. His hand rested on the hilt of his sword almost distractedly, his eyes always on Edmund. "I wasn't aware we Telmarines asked for King Peter's opinion on matters that are our business. Still, I assume your brother was taught proper etiquette back during his reign and as such, I implore you to remind him that I'm King by conquest as well, and therefore I'm worthy of respect. I say this to you for the benefit of your diplomatic affairs, of course."

"Frankly, Sire," Edmund replied instantly, his voice never wavering from its usual calm tone, "Respect must be earned, even if the person in question wears a crown. My brother earned that respect after he fought against the White Witch, the pirates and the giants, all the while becoming one of Narnia's most beloved leaders. Honestly, I'm not the person most capable to decide whether you have earned our respect, Sire. Still, that is not the point of this meeting. May I have your answer for my brother, Sire?"

Miraz narrowed his eyes, impressed by the king's cool attitude. "Do tell me, Prince Edmund-"

Whoa, Whoa. No.

"King," Edmund cut him off, smiling slightly as he caught Miraz's hidden surprise. Yes, it stung being addressed as Prince but still, it felt rewarding to call people out on their mistake, especially those enemies of his.

Edmund assumed Telmarines had books back in the castle so, if they didn't take the time to study as much as they could about the ones they were seeking to erase off the world, then they were unworthy of the Narnians' fear or respect. They were only worthy of their anger.

Miraz raised his eyebrows in question. "I beg your pardon?"

"It's King Edmund, actually. Just king, though. My brother is the High King," Edmund explained serenely, ignoring the shocked expressions around him. "I know, it's confusing, specially for those ignorant to Narnia's customs and history."

Miraz pursed his lips at that before leaning back against the back of his chair. He then nodded his head slightly as he continued speaking. "Very well. Now, do tell King Edmund. Why would I risk accepting such a proposal when my army could wipe you out by nightfall?"

"Aren't you underestimating our numbers?" Edmund asked in return, his eyes falling on each and every single one of the men sitting around him. "Surely you remember that, a few months ago, us Narnians were extinct."

He wanted them to remember everything Narnians had done already with as numbers as little as the one they held when in comparison to those of Miraz.

He wanted them to remember about Trumpkin, who escaped them; Reepicheep, who managed to surprise them time and time again; the griffins, who had allowed them to enter into the enemy castle unseen by the entire Telmarine army.

He wanted them to remember the numerous raids Caspian and Beth successfully led against the armies set out along Beruna, stealing weapons and provisions as they went. He wanted them to remember the raid, and the fact that they even got to Miraz' chamber before they were even seen by their enemy.

He wanted them to think of Caspian, who escaped everything he knew and was now an undisputed leader of the Revolution. He wanted them to think of all the secret weapons the Narnians could be holding, as they didn't know neither of Beth nor of Aslan. He wanted them to be scared, of what the Narnians were, and of what they could be.

Telmarines were afraid of the uncertain, and that's why they had no gods, no myths, no loves other than those they could sense. War and strategy, those were the two things passed on from generation to generation, but those two arts could be greatly affected by the unknown, as the Telmarines knew well.

When Edmund noticed the Telmarine' lords stiffening with stress and hidden fear, the Just King reckoned himself able to feel successful.

Miraz hardened his glare in an attempt to counteract Edmund's unnerving words. "And so you will be again."

Edmund nodded slightly. "Then you should have nothing to fear, Sire."

At that, Miraz shook his head as he barked out a humorless laugh. "This is not a question of bravery."

"Oh," Edmund raised his eyebrows, his lips stretched into a thin smile. "Then, it's safe to assume you are bravely refusing to fight a swordsman half your age, Sire?"

"I never said I refused," Miraz growled in return, all calm facades gone as he was called out on his cowardness.

"You shall have our support," one of the telmarine lords called from Miraz's left. He leaned forward to nod at his king loyally. "No matter what you decide, my liege."

At the same time, another lord, this one directly to Miraz's right, intervened, his eyes on Edmund. "Sire, only our military advantage allows us the perfect excuse to avoid-."

"You're lying; I'm not avoiding anything!" Miraz screamed at that, standing up at once and stabbing the table before him with a dagger.

Edmund looked on with a frown as the lord who had spoken raised his arms in defeat, noticing from the corner of his eyes how the others seemed to flinch as their king exploded. This was what set Miraz apart from Caspian. The inability to listen to those there to counsel him and therefore, the inability to accept an error or defeat.

Just then, the lord who had spoken shrugged, clearly undisturbed by his king's anger. "I am merely pointing out the fact my lord is well within his rights to refuse."

"His majesty would never refuse," a man intervened from behind Edmund, clearly a general, judging by his armour and the fact that he seemed to be there more for protection than for his mind. "It is the perfect opportunity to show his people the courage of their new king."

Edmund tried not to show any emotions as he caught Miraz's clear inner conflict. Assuming that the lord who had suggested Miraz should reject the proposal was the court's high lord, the exchange made Edmund worry, if he was being honest. As monarchs, Edmund and his siblings had relied the most on the counsel of their high lord, Tumnus, and of their general, Oreius. If Miraz was the same, for his high lord and general to hold opposite opinions seemed to be cause of bad news. Unless, of course, they had figured out who Miraz was, and they were trying to confuse him into doing exactly what they wanted.

Edmund didn't know exactly what was their secret plan but, if he had to bet, he would say it had something to do with power. After all, this were two of the most powerful men in Narnia, right after Miraz. If Miraz died, then they would be free to rule.

Edmund could only hope whatever their plans were wouldn't affect his people's own agenda.

After a long moment in which everyone seemed to hold their breaths as they waited for Miraz to decide, the Telmarine king finally unsheathed his sword and pointed it at Edmund.

"You," he growled at the Just King, "hope for your brother's sword to be sharper than his words."


Edmund only smirked before bowing and leaving the tent without looking back.

Edmund found the Narnians gathered in the Stone Table Room, all of them chattering excitedly in groups, seemingly waiting for something. He walked past groups of fauns, dwarves, talking animals and centaurs, all of whom bowed to him until at last, he caught sight of Peter's golden hair and Susan's red feathered' arrows.

"What's going on?" Edmund asked as he reached his siblings. "Where are the others?"

"Caspian is giving a speech. As it's our last day before the battle, we figured it would be ideal to boost the general morale," Peter explained when he noticed Susan was too focused on Caspian, who was climbing the steps to the Stone Table. He then clasped Edmund's shoulder with a smile. "How was it?"

"He accepted," Edmund replied, his eyes filtering through the crowd around him once he confirmed Beth wasn't standing besides Caspian. He had already found Adrien and Lucy coming towards them with huge smiles on their faces. "He was convinced by his general and high lord, if I'm judging them right. I'm not reassured by them, though. I think they want Miraz to die so they have access to the throne. We need to keep an eye on them so their treachery doesn't affect us."

Peter nodded, his eyes grave, but then he smiled proudly at Edmund. "You did good, Ed. I'm proud of you."

Edmund snorted. "You thought I'd screw it up?"

Peter raised his eyebrows. "Do you want an honest answer?"

"Bite me, Peter."

Peter opened his mouth to answer, Lucy's and Adrien's laughs echoing around them but then, a pair of arms encircled Edmund's waist.

"In my defense, I wanted to wait for you by the entrance but Su forced me to come and listen to her boyfriend," Beth spoke with a laugh as she rested her chin on Edmund's shoulder, smiling when Edmund turned his face towards her. "How did it go?"

"Perfectly, as always when I'm involved," Edmund replied smugly, his eyes softening when Beth stood before him and wrapped his own arms around her waist. He had missed her so much. "Hey, why aren't you with Caspian?"

"I figured I would let the man shine. I tend to steal the spotlight, as you know," Beth replied with a sufficient smile before narrowing her eyes and turning to her right, noticing how the others were staring at them with varying degrees of glee. "Now, I assume you made a bet on whether me and Edmund would get back together. Who won?"

Susan and Lucy, who had been smiling at the pair fondly, widened her eyes at Beth's words, their heads slowly turning until they were gaping at the mighty High King.

Beth and Edmund turned to look at Peter too, the latter laughing despite himself. "You won again!?"

"I don't know what to tell you," Peter countered. "I'm the High King. I know everything."

"Hush you all," Lucy cut in, slapping Peter's hand away when he tried to ruffle her hair. "Caspian is about to speak!"

"Your brother owes us part of his earnings. We made the man rich," Beth grumbled under her breath as all of them turned towards Caspian, only Edmund managing to hear her.

Edmund could only nod silently, biting his lips in order to hide his smile. Things were back to normal, and it felt greater than he dared to admit.

"My friends! Listen up!" Caspian called then, submitting those around him to silence. Beth looked around her, noticing how the Narnians looked between Caspian and herself with awe and loyalty, and straightened with pride, honored of being accepted by her people. "Today we will make our final preparations but tomorrow, tomorrow everything changes. Tomorrow our own High King will duel against the Telmarine usurper. Tomorrow, our destinies will be decided. Tomorrow, we will stand as brothers and sisters in arms against those willing to destroy us! Tomorrow, despite our differences, we stand united, one force against our enemy. Tomorrow we reclaim our freedom, we reject our enemy and we refuse our own extinction!"

"For Narnia and for Aslan!" Beth roared, unsheathing one of her long knives and pointing it at Caspian as a show of loyalty.

At once, the Narnians unsheathed their own weapons as they repeated Beth's words, soon enough falling into a wordless cheer as the warriors clapped each other in the backs or hugged one another in a silent show of respect and love.

Peter took all that in with utter emotion and, as Edmund, Beth, Lucy and Adrien were distracted, he turned to Susan with a melancholic smile. "It feels good to know Narnia will be in good hands, no matter what happens to us, don't you think?"

Susan turned to Peter with wide eyes, her heart breaking at the idea, even if she couldn't help but agree. Finally, she could only whisper. "Indeed. Our job is done, no matter what happens."


"Name this island."

Adrien rolled his eyes at the girl sitting in front of him at the table. "Is this necessary?"

"Educating you? I'd say so," Beth raised her eyebrows before nodding at the map placed between them. "Now, go on, dear."

Adrien sighed but replied nonetheless. "Galma."

Beth nodded, her lips stretched into a proud smile. "Now, how's our relationship with them?"

"Well, Narnia and Galma had a good relationship during the Golden Age. They maintained a solid trade between both countries during those years, while feasts and tournaments have been organized with the participation of both nations. Of course, that relationship was destroyed when Telmar invaded us, but Galma is one of the first countries we need to reach out to once peace is regained, as they're our main buyers of wood for construction."

Beth laughed as she shook her head. "That was impressive, brother. You actually listened to me."

"Hard not to, Beth. You're scary when you want to be," Adrien replied sardonically. "Are we done now?"

"Almost," Beth replied before straightening in her chair. "Next question. Which countries surround Narnia and what's our relationship with them before the Telmarines happened?"

"That's easy," Adrien scoffed. "We are surrounded by the wild Northern Lands to our North and by Archenland to our South. By East there's the sea and...gods, Beth, why are we doing this now?"

"What do you mean?" Beth asked, her brows furrowing in confusion.

"Lessons, Beth! We're fighting tomorrow!" Adrien exclaimed exasperatedly. "Please, aren't there more important things to do now other than improving my education?"

"There's nothing more important than your education!" Beth retorted. "A fact I'm sure your parents would have agreed with!"

"My father left me and my sister to die by the hands of the Telmarines!" Adrien yelled, his eyes wide with fury. "He shouldn't be able to get any say in what happens to me! I barely remember him because he chose to die rather than being with me!"

"Hey!" Beth yelled too, yet in concern rather than anger. "That's your father the one you're talking about, kid! I'm sure he wouldn't have left you if he had the choice!"

"Oh, but he did have the choice!" Adrien retorted angrily, yet faltering as he realized Beth didn't know what he was talking about. "You don't know what I mean, do you?"

"No, but you can say anything to me. You know that," Beth replied, softening her voice entirely. She raised from her chair to kneel before her brother. "What happened?"

Slowly and with a slight stutter, Adrien told Beth everything. About Oreius, the sword, and his family's curse. Once he was done, Beth sat on the floor, her eyes wide with shock, her mouth slightly opened as she processed everything.

"Beth?" Adrien questioned. He sat before his sister and looked into her eyes anxiously. "What are you thinking about?"

Beth's voice was a whisper as she slowly replied. "I'm thinking I want to speak to Glenstorm about what can be said to a kid."

"Beth, be serious, please," Adrien pleaded. "I want to fight. I want to be a leader like my family was. I want to defend others but...I'm scared, Beth. My father, sister, and all the others...they were legends, you know? They were respected and loved but they died. I don't want to be cursed, Beth, what do I do?"

"Oh, you aren't cursed, Adrien, the Deep Magic would have to go through me before doing anything to your fate," Beth scoffed. She reached and held his hands with hers in a reassuring manner.

Adrien pushed his long, brown hair away from his face and bit his lips nervously. "Beth. What do I do?"

Beth smiled at him and caressed his cheek with her hand before asking. "Adrien, what do you want to do when you grow up? You want to be a Narnian general, right?"

When Adrien nodded, Beth leaned forward, as if ready to confide Adrien with a secret. "Adrien, the Kings and Queens are taught to be capable leaders, but also to put their trust in the people with much more experience than theirs. In the end, the members of the council and the leaders of their army are the two most trusted groups of individuals to the monarchs, since they offer counsel when needed. The army's general is a particular position and in Narnia, its role serves as a sort of link between the counsel and the army. Therefore, the general is the most trusted member to the Narnian monarchy."

Adrien frowned. "I didn't know that."

"Well, you're only nine, Adrien. You can't be expected to know everything right away." Beth shrugged before continuing. "But, essentially, it means generals are much furthered schooled than other officers. The reason is that they fight both in the battlefield and in the counsel room."

Adrien shook his head with dread. "I don't like where this is going. How much else do I need to study?"

"I'll spare you the details for now, brother," Beth replied with a laugh. "But, my point is that there are all kinds of fighting. I don't believe your family was cursed. I believe they were all needed in the war against Telmarines but, Adrien, the end is coming. For better or worse, this is ending tomorrow. I don't know what's going to happen but our odds can't get any better than the ones we hold currently. Lucy will bring Aslan and I will be there as well and...there are all kinds of fighting, Adrien. Maybe you are also meant to be a leader, but that doesn't mean you will have to risk your life now, not while you have so much life left."

"That's easy for you to say," Adrien scoffed unimpressively. "You never had to sit back and watch."

"I did, yes," Beth shook her head. "I've been sitting by the sidelines ever since I came to this world."

"But, you've been fighting for us here and-," Adrien caught himself off as he took in Beth's sad expression. "Oh. You mean your mom and Robin."

"I know it wasn't my fault. I know I had no control over what happened but the question of how they've been ever since I came here has been bugging me for almost three years now," Beth shook his head with a sad chuckle. "Believe me when I say that I get you because moving on, making my own family in Archenland and now in Narnia...it has been torturous as I keep remembering that they are back in England, with no way of knowing I'm fine. I have never even tried to make it back to England, you know? I have made my life here and now...now, I don't want to go back."

Adrien nodded before sighing defeatedly. "Beth, you are all I have left. I can't leave you tomorrow and run into safety without knowing what will happen to you. I can't leave you. I have to fight beside you. Please."

"Mate, remember what I said when I offered you to stay with me?" Beth asked kindly. "I told you we would take care of each other. I intend to keep that promise, just as I know you intend it to do so as well. I will fight tomorrow to give you a better home, a home in which you can be free without any dangers. And you? You are going to fight for me by staying safe so I know that, no matter what happens, I have you to go back to."

"And if you die?" Adrien asked with a small voice.

Beth held Adrien's gaze for a moment before sighing.

"Something I've come to understand is that I never left my mom and Robin, not really," Beth whispered. "I miss them more than anything but I know that they are safe and happy, just like I am. I know that, as much as they miss me, they would rather have me living my happiest life possible instead of endangering myself trying to find a way back. There are lot of ways in which a person can fight, brother. You, being a kid, get to fight by educating yourself and by being safe. That way, you'll get the brightest future possible, and you will know that your family will be by your side every day, watching you grow with pride."

"And you? Are you proud of me?"

Beth laughed before resting her hands on his shoulders. "Adrien, sweetheart. There will never be a prouder sister than me. I know you are going to do great things. When you're ready."

Adrien hugged his sister tightly, his voice slightly muffled as he quipped, "well, not all of us can be queens of Narnia, so we have to do with what we have."

"You're impossible," Beth laughed in return, her arms encircling Adrien's waist tightly. "but I love you all the same."

"I love you too, sister."

And, as they hugged, the two of them thought of the families they had left behind with fondness, as they knew they weren't alone anymore.

Their families were in each other.


That night, everyone went to sleep rather early and, before sunrise, the six leaders were the first ones up. Peter, Edmund and Beth set off making sure everything was ready for the duel and the possible battle, while Susan, Lucy and Caspian went to the underground level, were Destrier was already waiting for them, all ready to go.

"I feel like the boys and Beth could have come to bid us goodbye," Susan mused as the three reached Caspian's beloved horse.

"Well, their excuses were valid in my opinion but, what do you know? Maybe they didn't want to deal with the two of you being all cute to each other," Lucy quipped before hopping onto the horse with ease.

Susan scoffed. "Right. That's rich coming from our brother. He and Beth have been positively disgusting since they got back together yesterday."

Caspian kissed Susan's forehead before chuckling. "I'm really glad I'm not Adrien. Edmund crashed at Beth's room yesterday, and I'm sure you all know how loudly does he snore."

Lucy snorted. "Ah, that's a nice picture."

Meanwhile, Susan turned towards Caspian with a frown. "Will you let my brother know he has a bed for a reason?"

"I think he slept on the floor but I'll pass the message on," Caspian smirked before sobering up as he rested his hands on the Gentle Queen's shoulders. "Now, scream if you're in trouble, okay? Surely Beth will be able to know somehow and I'll be there in a second."

"Cas, we'll be fine," Susan replied with a smile. "Don't worry about us."

"Besides, Aslan won't let anything happen to us," Lucy added from above. "We're too precious to be harmed."

"That you are, but I still worry. It's my job to worry," Caspian smiled at Lucy before looking down at his girlfriend. "I love you."

"I love you, too," Susan whispered in return before standing on his toes to place a lingering kiss on his lips. Then, they embraced tightly, reluctant to let go and leave each other, even if they knew it was their duty.

After a few minutes, Susan finally hopped on Destrier and looked down at Caspian with a smile. "We'll see you soon."

"Destrier has always served me well," Caspian commented in return, his right hand on Destrier's neck. He smiled at the two queens. "He is loyal and brave. You couldn't be in better hands."

"Or hooves," Lucy quipped lightly, making the other two laugh.

"Good luck, girls," Caspian offered once he sobered up.

Lucy smiled and nodded her thanks while Susan tightened her grip on the reins, her eyes always on Caspian. "Thanks. Good luck to you too."

Caspian nodded before hesitating. Then, as if making up his mind, he searched through his bag, pulling out Susan's horn. He then looked up with a sheepish glance. "Su, I think it's time you had it back."

Susan looked at it for a long moment. She loved that horn tremendously, the object being related to one of her most cherished moments in Narnia. The moment Santa Claus appeared before them and offered her magic bow, arrows and horn was one she remembered often and with pride, as it was the moment she knew she was meant for more than what her life in England had provided so far.

Still, she understood it had long stopped being hers. She wasn't in need of an aiding object. Not anymore.

Caspian, on the other hand...

Finally, Susan smirked at him. "Why don't you hold onto it? Who knows, you may need to call me again."

With that, Susan rode off, feeling Caspian's eyes on her as she disappeared down the tunnel. She couldn't help but feel smug about her interaction with the prince but then, Lucy spoke, reminding her that she wasn't alone.

"You may need to call me again!?" Lucy shrieked before bursting into a exaggerated laughter.

"Oh, shut up!"