A/N: Back at it again, thank you for the follows and the review! This chapter is a long one, I was surprised myself, but I couldn't stop writing. I do want things to speed things along, however I do need to spend some time with just Rillian and of course build up his relationship with Susan. I do miss Caspian though and I can't wait for their reunion! Also I can't upload any images and the support team hasn't reached out so I guess no cover picture.
I do not own anything, the book or the characters or the movie! Nothing!
Cast
Caspian- 48 "Ben Barnes"
Susan-23 "Anna Popplewell"
Rillian- 25 "Bradley James"
Rilian had been away from home for over a year fighting this war and he was bone-tired. The war with the giants began out of no where. One day at a new settlement, further north, where Narnians and men resided, there was a surprise attack. Those that managed to escape, came to the Telmar Castle and told his Father, King Caspian. Right away The King wanted to go off to war, ready to fight these beast back to the hole they came from.
However, Rilian already knew his Father couldn't go, Narnia still needed their King. Someone needed to watch over the palace and the people who resided there. Trumpkin and his other advisors had squashed the idea of him fighting. Also their King was getting up there in years, but no one would ever dare say that to his Fathers face.
Not that the King of Narnia was weak, if anything his Father was more powerful and resilient in his older years. Steadfast in his decision making and bring peace throughout the land. His Father was a rather stubborn man when he wanted something. What had finally convinced their King not to go off to war was him being the last line of defense, if anything were to happen to him and his soldiers.
That had caused a whole other argument and debate, Rilian knew how protective his Father was of him, being his only son and the last of his family. His mother died many moons ago, having fallen ill after his birth and only living until Rilian's 10th birthday. So of course, the King wanted his son to have nothing to do with the war, but Rilian wouldn't have any of it.
"I am going to be the King one day, Father! Its about time you stop coddling me!" He had all but yelled at his Father, leaving the man fuming in his throne. Rilian stood before him, passion and determination covering his face. "What kind of King am I supposed to be if I cower behind these walls? How is it fair that the woman have to send their husbands and sons to war? While I am young and able bodied, only to staying behind!? How am I ever supposed to gain respect among the people, Father? As a captain, in your army what does me staying here make me look like!? I'm not asking you, I'm going!"
His Father had starred at him speechless and Rilian briefly wondered if he had pushed his Father to far. But instead he was speechless when his Father came down from his throne to hug him. "I am so proud of you," and just like that Rilian was reverted back to being a young child, craving his Fathers embrace. "I could never ask for a more better son or future King." He pulled away from Rilian and he was surprised to see tears in his eyes. His Father never really cried in front of him. The rare times had been after his mothers passing and another being the first festival celebrating the Kings and Queens of old. "Come back to me, my son."
Rilian shook himself out of his reverie, now was not the time to be dwelling. He needed to focus, grabbing the horses rein as he and his soldiers road into yet another battle. Rillian had lost a lot of friends and comrades during this past year, causing him to rise quickly through the ranks. No one had made any protest at his promotion to General's position. The last person holding that position was killed by being thrown off of a cliff. They would've lost that battle too, if it wasn't for Rilian's sheer determination and strategies that lead them to victory. No longer did he worry about gaining the respect and loyalty among his soldiers. They would follow him to their ruin.
Rilian saw the break in the path he and his soldiers were riding though. Looking to his left and right he saw both of his lieutenants. Remus, a centaur and Theo, a cheetah. They would die for their Prince and he knew it.
"Remember to break off and lead each of your teams on each side, I will continue forward with mine." They nodded as they made it into the clearing. Swords out and teeth bared. What greeted them was about 30 giants all of them turned and began to make there way to them. Just like he strategized, he rode forward while his lieutenants went on either side of the surrounding forest.
Giants were known for being dumb and slow, but their strength was great. He had watched many soldiers fall to their clubs or being stepped on. Rilian braced himself as the distance shortened, swords raised, his battle worn body filling with adrenaline and anticipation. He was wary, but knew that this was what he had to do in order to protect his people, land and home. He was willing to die for Narnia.
"FOR NARNIA!" He cried and was surrounded by joining cries of the same sentiment as they met the Giants. Rilian horse, Arsenios skillfully maneuvered them in-between the legs of a massive 20 ft Giant. Rilian had both of his swords at the ready as he slashed through the tendon at the base of the Giant's leg causing the tendon to separate and leaving the Giant unable to walk. The Giant fell with a cry and was immediately covered with his soldiers, efficiently killing the beast.
Rilian spared them no mind as his attention was drawn to the cry of one of his men. He could nothing to save him as he was half crushed by another 20 ft Giant foot. Rilian pulled out his crossbow, letting Arsenios guide them through the battle field . With a moments aim, Rilian fired his crossbow, embedding his bolt into the Giants eye. The Giant clutched his face and he soon fell to the ground dead.
Rilian continued on, getting lost in the blood and carnage, many of his soldiers fell, but so did the Giants and rapidly at that. Cutting down these monsters who dared attack their beloved land. He knew the war would be ending soon, they were getting closer to the chief that was leading this rebellion. But today was not the day.
Rilian was loading another bolt when he heard the cry of his lieutenant, Theo. He was using the back of a dead Giant to leap on the back of the neck of another. The Giant had reached a hand back to grab at him. The Beast had only succeeded in yanking at the Cheetah's tail, causing him to cry out.
"Arsenios, left!" His horse did as he was told as his rider pointed the crossbow at the beast ear. Rilian closed one of his eyes and focused on slowing down his breathing. "Aslan, guide me." He whispered, releasing his bolt, watching as it sore through the opening of the beast ear canal. Yet another beast fell to his hands. Theo gave a nod of thanks before disappearing into the crowd of fighting warriors.
The sun was now halfway done with its journey through the sky, telling him some time had passed. Rilian silver armor was covered in blood and sweat, arms aching with fatigue but he couldn't stop. Unfortunately, he was losing sight of many of his men, having broken off on his own to take on two Giants. Arsenios dodged this way and that, but he could only hold them off for so long.
Rilian reached down to his waist on his left side and snatched at the delicate white horn strapped there. Without losing any concentration, he raised the horn up to his mouth and blew. His mind thought back to what his Father had said to him when he gave him one of his most prized possession. 'Blow on this and wherever you are, help will come. As it did for me.' He remembered the look of despair and longing on his Fathers features as he handed over the beautifully decorated horn.
Rilian had yet found the horn's usefulness until now and as he blew, the air seemed to shimmer and change around him. He had only a second to spare on the thought before being swiftly drawn back into battle. Remus and his men had come, helping Rilian dispatch the two Giants.
"Thanks, old friend." Rilian smiled at Remus, who gave a half smile in return. "Of course, my Prince." Rilian felt a small flare of annoyance, he hated being referred to as a 'Prince', on the battlefield. "General." He corrected, he knew this shouldn't bother him and knew that was his station, but he saw himself as more than just a Prince.
Rilian let go of his annoyance, when he caught sight of maroon flashing in his peripherals. He whipped his head around and saw a young woman in a ripped up dress. Rilian felt confusion and alarm fill him. 'How had she gotten here? Why was she here?'
"Remus!" He said sharply, causing the centaur to turn to him with raised eyebrows. "Go and-" He broke off as he saw her grab a bow off of a dead faun and loading the bow. Remus turned in the direction of where Rilian was staring currently and they both surveyed the mysterious woman as she took aim. With out delay, the woman fired her weapon. Rilian watched in awe as her arrow nailed through a Giant eye, as he had done earlier and like he, she brought down the Giant.
Rilian turned back to the woman, and felt his heart skip as he drew closer. She was extraordinary. Her skin pale ivory with long wavy mahogany hair that reached her waist and her eyes, azure sky blue. Freckles dusted her delicate face, a small button nose and plump pink lips. He knew her face... He had seen it many times in the great hall.
"Queen Susan?" He was in blown away by her sudden appearance, his Father had spoken of The Kings and Queens of old when he was younger. He also recalled the many stories his old professor Cornelius had told to him before he had passed on to Aslan's country. He knew she and her siblings were never to return to Narnia, so why was she here? Rilian looked back to the horn at his side and remembered the change in the air after he blew it. She had come when he called... just like she had for his Father.
Rilian's breath caught as he thought of his Father, he knew that the older man longed for her return. Even though he had never said anything personal to Rilian about their time together. His Father would just talk about what her and her siblings had done to help him. But Rilian recollected a time just months after his Mothers passing and couldn't sleep. He remembered going to his Fathers room and not finding him there. So he had walked the dark halls of the castle, tying to find his Father.
He had just past another corridor, when he heard his Fathers deep voice down the hall. Rilian had tiptoed his way down the hall, trying to eavesdrop on his Father. What he heard and saw, had left him stunned. His Father was kneeled before her painting, his hand raised on her dress. "Susan..." He had heard his Fathers broken whisper, a soft sob being released. Rilian had run away from the sight, his gut twisting with anger and shock. Why did his Father weep for a woman who was not his mother!?
Rilian had never brought up what he saw that night and had thrown himself into training. Now thinking back, Rilian was ashamed of himself for being so nosy, for he could see now why his Father's heart still beat for her.
Rilian didn't even notice Remus had left him long ago, causing Rilian to cursing himself as he dived back into battle. Now was not the time to stop and stare. He started to fight his way through the fray, trying to reach her. He knew his Father would never forgive him if any harm fell upon her. He wouldn't forgive himself either.
Once again, Rilian was reunited with Remus and they both joined a group of minotaurs take down a 15 ft Giant. "General, the woman-" Rilian sharp eyes shot to Remus, as they both pulled their swords out of the Giants calve. "I wasn't able to get much but she fights on our side." Rilian nodded and responded. "Well, she should. After all she is Queen Susan, The Gentle." He wanted to laugh at his Lieutenant's expression of shock, but that was when he caught sight of her flying through the air and landing hard on her back.
Rilian was beside himself as he rushed Arsenios to her, but he was too late. He felt horror and fury rush through him whist she was picked up by a 18 ft giant. Rilian turned to make eyes at Remus who understood and motioned for some soldiers to follow him. He knew words didn't need to be said after spending many nights strategizing and fighting side by side. Remus knew to come up behind the giant.
"Drop her!" He bit out, seething as the beast looked at him with humor and dislike. He knew the fat fool recognized him as the General of the Narnia Army. He had seen this Giant a few times in battle, but the coward had always retreated before Rilian could introduce his blades to him. "I won't warn you again, filth! Now!"
Rilian ignored the beast words, the beast was obviously trying to goad him into doing something reckless. He was furious under the surface and was just waiting for the right moment to attack. He looked behind the beast at Remus and a few men as they stealthily approached Org back. His attention was drawn back to the Queen, when he heard her scream of pain as she was squeezed. How dare this beast lay a hand on her!? Rilian clenched his teeth, knowing he had to wait for Remus to get into position. But before his men could do anything, Rilian witnessed the Queen raising a single arrow up high and stabbing the beast hand hard.
"Now, Remus! Kill it now!" He roared his command, franticly moving towards the falling body. He didn't even see a tree arise and it's wrap it's thick roots around the beast thick neck, strangling him. He did hear a loud snap and then the thuds of the beast head and body hitting the ground. He didn't even bother to look back.
All he cared about was catching the Queen. "It's okay. I've got you," He whispered in a rush, turning Arsenios in the direction of the camp. He knew the fight was over and it had been a success. Small hands wrapped themselves around his neck and body and he tightened his hold of her. Her scent unique, a mix of apples, honey and lavender. He couldn't help but breath her in, cradling her close. How long had it been since he felt the touch and scent of a woman? Ah, he remembered it had been a week before his departure. What was her name again? Emilia? Or was it Emallay? He didn't really care.
You couldn't really fault him for his lack of care, he was a bit preoccupied at the moment with a Queen in his arms. It really was no wonder his Father never got over her. She was a fierce warrior, who had willingly joined them in battle and with no armor on! He could tell that there was more to the Queen than just a beautiful face, she was determined, courageous and a leader. It truly was a privilege to see this woman in battle, there were not too many accounts of her battling in the Golden Age. His Father had always shied away from speaking about her, while the Professor and Trumpkin spoke of her fondly.
He could feel her eyes exam him and he kept hi eyes straight forward, letting her study him. Should he tell her who he was? Well yes, but his title and his parentage? For some reason, he didn't feel it was necessary to tell her everything about himself, especially his relations. He didn't want her treating him any different. What if she hated him due to his mother and her relationship to his Father?
When he saw the wood wall of his camp, he decided to speak to her about where she was and his advice for her to stay. He didn't want to let on that he knew who she was, just in case she'd run. Rilian almost scoffed at her words of worry, however, he didn't want to gain her ire. There was no question that she was on their side, but he appreciated her worry. Finally they had reached his tent and helped them both down.
Rilian looked down at the Queen, who seemed close to tears. What had she been think about? He wanted to ask but didn't want to appear nosy or rude. Maybe they could become friends and then she would share her burden.
After he gained her attention, she had put distance between them and Rilian felt a pang of annoyance but he allowed it. What was wrong with him? Rilian sighed internally, his body weary after the long battle and now he would have to sleep on the hard ground. Although he would never voice his complaint and would happily give his tent to her again.
Again she voiced her concern about her being a stranger, but he had simply put an end to her worry by finally revealing his knowledge of her. This time he couldn't stop the cheeky smile that uplifted the corners of his mouth as he gave her a deep bow.
"My name is Rilian. I am the General of the Narnian Army." After a few seconds, he rose back up to his full 6ft4 height. She was eyeing him spectively, before nodding and giving him a warm smile.
"Thank you, Rilian. I am happy to be here to assist you in your need. I do appreciate all your help and hospitality, but I can not take your tent." Rilian was already shaking his head. "You needn't thank me. After all you and your siblings have done for Narnia and its people, we will forever be in you debt." He could see her words had an affect on her because she just gave him a sad smile and unleashed tears glossed over her eyes.
"I thank you again, for your kindness and generosity to me, but I insist you at least stay with me. The tent is large and we could share it." She rose her hand when he was about to interrupt. "Really. You and I had a long weary battle, we need both need our rest. I'm sure there's another bedroll or cot..." She looked back up into his eyes and Rilian found himself giving in. "I actually have two cots already, we just need to pull them apart." His body was a bit on the larger size due to his muscular form and he tended to spread himself out while he slept. "But before we do that, I think we both need a wash, there's a river right outside the other end of the camp."
She nodded in agreement before looking down at herself, without waiting for her to say anything. Rilian quickly entered his tent and grabbed his spare black wide cuff shirt, ankle banded pants, a belt and a bar soup. He knew this would fit her loosely, but it was the best he could do with their limited supplies for regular clothes. He'd have to grab spare armor off of a small faun. He made his way back out and handed the clothes to her.
"Here, these are my spares. I know they won't fit correctly, but its the best we have. I'll also get you some armor since it appears you'll be here for a while." He hoped she be able to stay, he would hate to return home without her and only stories to tell his Father. She said a soft thanks, before following after him as he gestured west.
"Thankfully, its the beginnings of Fall so its not too hot, but also, not too cold. I'll let you go first and I'll stand guard, usually the soldiers like to bath after battle." She nodded, a light blush covering her face and Rilian couldn't help but stare a few seconds before looking respectfully forward. RIlian went over the camp and it's areas, where to find what or who. The camp was vast and Rilian knew it was easy to get lost. After he finished, the Queen seemed to be lost in a memory. "You majesty?"
"Susan," She answered, absentmindedly. " Just Susan, please, General." Her hands were tracing the side of a white tent with lions decorated on the flaps. "Fine, but I insist on you calling me Rilian then." He responded with a soft smile and was greeted with another warm one in return.
"So tell me Rilian, what stories have you heard?" She looked at him expectantly, "Well, I heard how you all came her from another world called 'Earth', you came at a time of never ending winter and a white witch." Rilian nodded at the guards who stood at the entrance of the west gate and guided Susan through, ignoring their wide eyed gazes. He knew Remus and Theo, would've spread the word about their Gentle Queens return. Surprisingly, she hadn't noticed any of the stares that followed both of them as they walked through the camp.
"You four were able to defeat the witch and reigned for 15 years. The Golden Age, your people still call it." Susan shook her head ruefully and a little bitter. "They are no longer my people, nor am I a Queen anymore." Rilian stopped dead in his tracks, she had continued to walk down the hilly path towards the river. Susan had made it a few paces before he realized he no longer followed her. She turned back and looked at his still form in confusion. "Rilian, wha-."
"Once a King or Queen of Narnia, always a King or Queen of Narnia!" He interrupted, a bit too fiercely. He watched as her mouth opened in a small 'o' before she immediately turned away, vulnerable. "I seemed to have forgotten those words..." There was a catch in her voice and Rilian felt terrible, but he couldn't put up with a blatant lie. She was a Queen, Aslan had said so himself!? "Forgotten? Did you fall and hurt your head?" He knew that wasn't the case, but there was something happened to make her forget... What was it? He knew he hit a nerve because her eyes were now icy as she turned her head back to him.
"No, but that is none of your business, General Rilian." She said waspishly, the vulnerable tone gone from her voice. Her back now faced him as she began to storm down the path. Rilian wanted to hit himself, why had he pushed? He knew it was a sensitive topic, but he wanted to understand her.
Rilian trailed behind, not wanting to cause anymore anger or pain. Ever since he was young, he had a tendency to push the limits and now it had come back to bite him again. His hand reached up to tug at the end of his blond locks. They had reached the river and Susan rounded on him, her posture stiff. Rilian promptly turned his back to her and listened and after a brief moment, he heard a splash.
He scanned the surrounding area, tucking one hand behind his back and the other on the pommel of his sword. After a few minutes passed, he heard her wading through the water. Focus. Pretended its Trumpkin dancing naked behind you. Rilian wanted to gag at the image, but it did take his mind off of the very naked woman behind him. A naked woman with longs wet dark hair that clung to her curvy form. Soft creamy skin that was begging to be mar-. Okay, naked dancing Trumpkin it was!
After 10 minutes, he heard Susan come out of the river and waited a few more minutes before he heard her, 'Uhm'. Rilian slowly circling around and had to hold back a groan. Why was her wearing men clothing attractive, or was it because it was his? She had pulled his black pants up to her waist and tucked the loose shirt in and secured it with his belt.
"I'm sorry, your majesty. I didn't mean to pry into things that were none of my business. Please forgive." He blurted out, his normally confidence swagger absent. She contemplated him for what seemed like hours. "Susan." She said softly, her eyes softening before she came up to him. "Well? Aren't you going to wash? I'm sorry, I don't really know the way back. I know you explained where everything was but I have a lot on my mind." Rilian didn't mind in the slightest.
Rilian walked over to the river and began to undress, peeling away the armor, under shirt and pants and then his armor garments. He immersed himself in the lazy river, he washed at his dirt and sweat covered skin. He was in waste deep, head tilted back and hands washing his hair when he thought he heard a gasp. Thinking someone was on them, Rilian's eyes flashed open and began to observe the area with a guarded eyes. "Susan, what is it!?"
"No-Nothing, I'm sorry, I accidently stumbled." He turned to look at her, her hair was currently in a braid, so he could see her usually pale skin covered in red spots. What? Why lie about something so trivial? Rilian had a knack for people who lie, just some odd sense and usually he would call it out, but he just got on her good side again. Shrugging, he went back to his bath and finished a few minutes later and filling considerably better.
Offering his arm to Susan, who had gladly accepted, though he noted a red flush still covering her features. When they made it back to the camp everyone seemed to have returned and all heard the news of the Queens return. Rilian was concerned for how she'd react, especially how she reacted towards him.
But it seems his concern was for nothing because she straighten in his arms, her face taking on a serene smile and gave her hellos to her people. Who all appeared to be beside themselves, bowing and moving closer to her. Rilian said nothing, but did pat her arm in his and when she looked up, her gave her a smirking smile. Her eyes narrowed playfully, but soon turned somber again. Why was she so sad? Before he could say anything, Theo and Remus, approached them.
"Queen Susan, welcome home." Remus stated, giving her a bow and following his lead, Men and Narnians soon joined. Rilian pulled away from her to join the others in respect. Susan face seemed to mask over, appearing poise and dignified, taking over her role again as a Queen Of Narnia. She had stepped forward away from him as she Acknowledged the gathered men.
"Thank you, I have missed my home dearly and I am willing again to fight for my home, my people and for Narnia! We will drive these Giants back to the disgusting hole where they came from and may they never enter our home again!" She was firm and resolute in her word, not once shying away from the spotlight. "My sibling and I's, love our country more than the stars love the sky and while my siblings are not here with me. I will fight with their spirits and continue their legacy!" At the end, there was a shift in her mask, it was small but it was there. Maybe she just missed her siblings? He heard his people clapping and cheering, he soon joined them. He was still observing, he watched as Remus guided her to the eating area.
Rilian signaled for Theo to come to him, once he was there, Rilian pulled him to the side. "Do not bring up my Father or my relation to him. I am just the General." The cheetah stared up at him and he could tell the cheetah was shocked. "But why?" Rilian sighed, "I don't want to get her hopes up in seeing him or any of her friends she knew before. My Father and her were close. I do not wish to distract her during this war." Theo understood completely. "Spread word immediately." Theo affirmed and ran off to start spreading his word.
Walking up, Rilian caught the end of Remus telling Susan about his wife at home. "Yes, Isla and I have been together for 10 years. I was just a baby when Ki-"Rilian rapidly speed up and touching his comrades arm. "Remus, Theo has something he needs to speak with you about." Remus looked over at Theo was was talking to a group of Fauns and agreed. Susan was eyeing Remus and then turned back to him. "Everything okay?" Rilian nodded, placing a hand on Susan back to show her where to sit.
Dinner was boisterous as usual, each talking about one battle to the next and never bringing up the King. Rilian hated doing this, but he would also hate for Susan to be distracted. I mean, what if she no longer cared for his Father? Or what if she stayed, that would be a nice surprise. Hmm, yes, this was a good idea. Susan didn't need to know his Father still breathed.
Susan began to nod off right next to him, so Rilian quickly called an end to their dinner and directed Susan back to his tent. Once there, he lit up a few candles. His tent was large, with moss green flooring, his bed at the corner, a battle table in the center and his chest on the other side. He also had a bookshelf and a practice dummy. Rilian paid his room no mind, busying himself with pulling apart the cot, pillows and furs. Susan stood there, hands rung together and her teeth worrying over her bottom lip.
"I really don't mind sleeping somewhere else." She waved her hand at him. "It's fine, Rilian. This is your tent, I'm not going to kick you out of it. He moved his cot to the other side of the room, leaving her with all the pillows and fur. "Rillian, I don't need all this and it's not like I'm going to bite you." Laughing softly, she tossed a fur and pillow at him, which he had quickly caught. "It does get chilly at night sometimes." She didn't respond, going to lay down and covering herself from his view. Rilian moved to blow out all the candles except for one.
Rilian usually slept without a shirt or pants, but he wouldn't dare do that while she was here. So Rilian laid back and shifted himself, somewhat uncomfortable but it was better then sleeping with a bunch of men or the floor. He started to fall asleep when he heard her.
"Rilian, what else have you heard about my siblings and I." He glanced across the dark room and saw her Azure blue eyes staring at him.
"After your 15 years of reign, you and your siblings went off to find a white stag and you disappeared for 1300 years. Then you came back when a young Telmarine blew your horn. After that there were different accounts..." She raised herself onto her elbows to view him better. "What accounts?" He turned his body to the side to face her. "That Queen Susan and Prince Caspian, had a romance..." He heard her gasp and even in the dim light, he could see her skin change to a darker shade. Rilian couldn't hold back wry laugh, "So it's true!"
"Yes, and no..." She was biting her lip again, Rilian couldn't take his eyes away. "It's your turn to tell me a story." He teased, "You barely told one!" She smiled, but relented. "When I first saw Caspian, he was 18 and fighting my older brother Peter." His eyebrows rose as he laid back and listened. "My Sister Lucy had a habit of running off without proper caution and Peter went after her without us. So I awoke to Edmund shaking me and telling me they'd both run off. I was so worried and furious, but that quickly went away when I heard Lucy yell out 'stop'." Susan trailed off then, lost in her memories. "That's when I saw him, he was tall and lean, broad shoulders with long wavy hair at his shoulders." Rilian didn't know how he feel, this was his Father she was talking about.
"He had an accent I didn't recognize but I did recognize my horn." She laughed, "He was stunned to realize we were his age and not some in our 20's. Of course, Peter had to be rude about it, but that's when..." She stopped, he think he knew what she was talking about. "When you first met eyes." Rilian whispered and gave her a sad smile. "Yes, it was like the air changed and I was the only person he saw... it was difficult to hear from Aslan that Peter and I, were never to return. That my destiny with Caspian was going to be entwined, but never joined. My Sister told me of her last visit and that he was to marry..."
The whole time as she told her story, Rilian listened with rapt attention. His Father never spoke of her in this way to him, but Rilian would catch glimpses of his eyes when he knew his Father was thinking of her. When he would stay in the great hall for hours, or when he was in his office staring at her gifts from Father Christmas or when every year he dedicates a day of remembrance of her and her siblings. A part of him wanted to hate Susan because it always seemed that his Father settled for his Mother and never loved her, but he knew his Father did love his Mother. Though this love for the Gentle Queen was like a burning flame that never stopped burning and from the looks of it, she felt the same.
"Do you resent her?" Rilian asked, this was something he was worried about. "No. Why would I be angry or hateful towards someone who made him happy? The way you can tell you really love someone, is when you can love them enough to let them go and let them be happy, even though it's not with you." She finished, looking up at the roof of the tent. Rilian could hear the strain in her voice, he didn't push for anymore. "But It hurt. It hurt me enough to stop thinking of him and Narnia. Memories can be painful."
Hope you enjoyed! xo
