Chapter # 5 Save the Last Dance

Disclaimer: I don't own any rights to Narnia, only my OC Stephanie

This story is rated M for later Chapters

The air was electrified with the anticipation of the final banquet, for the winners of the competition would be announced. Susan was waiting for Stephanie to arrive. She and Lucy both were concerned about her. Neither of them had seem someone faint before. Susan was anxious to speak with Stephanie, hoping to discover the reason behind her dead faint. She'd told Peter about what had happened. He to was greatly concerned. He hadn't spent much time with Stephanie, but Susan could sense his attraction to her, even if he didn't. She smiled to herself. She'd also discovered Edmund's secret affairs with Isadora.

"Susan" Stephanie said as she entered the room "My, you look lovely your majesty"

"Stephanie, thank-you. How are you feeling?"

"Much better thanks, Mrs. Beaver made sure I was well looked after."

"Stephanie, what happened? Why did the painting alarm you so?"

"I shall explain everything tomorrow, for you must be joining your family. Everyone is waiting"

"Alright" Susan said a little disappointed," well I am glad that you're feeling better"

Susan and Stephanie departed for the dining room. Stephanie entered as Susan gathered with her family to be announced. Stephanie entered, admiring the beautiful decorations. The glass ceiling revealed the blanket of stars. The round tables were topped with colorful rose buds, daises and violets pouring out of a vase. The tables were set handsomely, and the delicious aromas of dinner made her mouth water. A young centaur approached her and spoke " I have been given the honor of escorting you to your table tonight. I am rather pleased to meet another daughter of Eve" He looked shyly at Stephanie as he showed her to the table. The trumpets sounded yet again and the royal family entered. They all dined on another delicious meal. When the tea was served, Queen Susan rose. There was immediate silence. Everyone rose to their feet.

"Thank you. Please be seated." She paused while her guests sat. "We're delighted that you all came to entertain us for the festival. Some of you came a very long distance indeed. It was a marvelous celebration and we enjoyed ourselves tremendously. We hope you did as well. Now, to honor the winners of the competitions we wish to present them with these metals." Susan motioned toward a display of gleaming metals and the audience gasped their approval. These would be treasured items to any Narnian."I would now like to invite my brother and your King, Edmund to come forward and announce the winners of the cavalry competition"

Edmund came forward with pride. He listed the eight colts who'd been selected. Among them was of course Oberon. Stephanie noticed Braun's eyes twinkling with pride as Edmund placed the metal round Oberon's neck. Braun had taken Peter into battle and it was an honor to have Oberon,his kin be accepted into the royal cavalry.

Peter and Lucy had now stepped forward. "Our warmest congratulations to all" said Peter smiling to the crowd

"Let us now retire from dinner to the ballroom and continue our celebrations in dance!" Said Lucy

Stephanie couldn't help but admire Lucy's youthful enthusiasm. She looked so grown up tonight in her formal gown. She peered over at Mr. Tumnus who was staring intently at Lucy to. People began to rise from their tables and make their way to the ballroom. Stephanie had joined Oberon and was giving him her praise. She was interrupted by an energetic, smiling Lucy. She tugged on Stephanie's arm slightly, then spoke.

"Peter, requests your presence."

Stephanie grinned and answered "It's my honor"

"I rather think its his, you look incredible"

"Thank you Lucy, as do you" said Stephanie as they approached the ballroom

"He shall meet you on the terrace, just go through those doors. That's the throne room. The terrace is on the right"

"Thank-you Lucy" Mr. Tumnus arrived to escort the young queen. Stephanie walked across the ballroom feeling as if she was a character in a fairy tale. The stone walls of the vast ballroom was lit with burning torches, recalling knights in armour and damsels in distress. The centaurs and other royal staff were dressed in blue velvet livery and were acting as ushers, graciously guiding delighted guests into the festively decorated ballroom. She made her way into the throne room. She was temporarily transfixed on the four highly decorated thrones. She turned to her right and made her way to the terrace. Peter hadn't arrived so she just stood against the railing. She breathed in deeply, filling her lungs with the crispy air.

Peter had been standing in the terrace entrance. He stole a few moments to admire Stephanie. It had been sometime since he'd been around any girl, especially a human girl. Stephanie looked incredible tonight. He was a little embarrassed realizing he'd taken this long to really look at her. She was wearing a deep purple gown that was fitted at the waist by a corset laced with golden ribbons. She was of his general height, slender and very delicate looking. Stephanie must have felt his eyes upon her because she slowly turned around.

"I have been asked to meet you, your majesty" she said giving a slight curtsey.

"Yes, I wanted to inquire as to how you were feeling. My sisters told me of you accident. You startled us."

"I am terribly embarrassed, I was just shocked by the portrait" she answered

"Yes, my sister mentioned that to. How so?"

"Well I was going to seek your council tomorrow to tell you this, but it was my locket sire, she, whomever she is. Is wearing it"

Peter admitted to himself that he had nearly forgotten the locket with the festival's excitement.

"You are sure?" asked Peter

"Yes, the locket she wears is engraved with the royal emblem of Narnia aswell" Stephanie paused. "There is more. The woman has been in my dreams, or should I say nightmares. I have dreamt of her twice since my arrival." Stephanie said. She then proceeded to tell him in detail what she remembered of both dreams.

"I dare say this is a strange coincidence." responded Peter

"From what I hear there aren't any coincidences in Narnia"

Peter chuckled a little. "Mmm, I dare say it but your pretty right. I am not one who can unmask dreams. This woman's portrait hangs alongside great characters of Narnia. Therefore she has had some historical significance. She must be recorded in our archives."

"Ah yes your majesty! Brilliant" Stephanie beamed. She was really buggered by this. How'd did she a human from outside this world, come across a locket from this world.

"May I have your locket, I would like a historian to examine the inscription." asked Peter, he was pleased to spark some hope into solving the mystery of this woman.

"Of course, Sire, if it shall help unravel my case" she answered while she fiddled with the clasp. "Err it's stuck"

"Here, may I" Peter stepped towards here and placing his hands upon her shoulders he gently spun her around. Parting her hair and pushing it over her shoulders, he then fumbled with the clasps until it came loose from the fabric of the gown. "It was snagged on your gown" . He pulled a handkerchief from his pocket and carefully wrapped the locket inside before placing it to in his pocket.

Stephanie turned back and smiled "Thank-you". His sudden closeness sent a little shiver through herself.

"Well we best be joining the ball" Peter said extending his arm "May I" Stephanie again curtseyed and happily took his arm. Peter lead them off the terrace.

When they returned they found themselves being entertained by a traditional dance of nymphs. The nymphs had formed three circles, the circles were inside of each other. The smallest in the center, a larger one round it, then the largest around the latter. From above it resembled a bulls-eye. The Nymphs were dressed in vibrant robes and wraps. It reminded Stephanie of the garments one would wear in India. She'd never been to India, but her grandfather had and he'd brought back many illustrations to show her. Each Nymph carried two sticks, that were equal length and wrapped in ribbon. The circles moved in opposite directions, the center counter-clockwise, the middle clockwise, and the outer counter-clockwise as well. Drums, flutes and pipes accompanied the dancers but they kept time by chanting and clacking their sticks together. The rhythm created by the banging of the sticks swayed the crowd. Everyone was gleefully enjoying this cultural display. Afterwards, Peter asked Stephanie to join him in the last dance. She obliged but was nervous. She didn't really know any proper dances. Susan and Oberon gave Stephanie a wink and then Susan pretended to swoon bringing her hand to her forehead. Stephanie blushed and glared at them in embarrassment. She found herself in the center of the dance floor, Peter's right arm round her waist and his other hand gently picking up hers. They stood waiting for the music to begin but Stephanie piped up.

"Your Majesty? I do hope your wearing strong shoes"

Chuckling "My goodness, why do you ask?"

"Sire, I fear I may injure your toes because I am a ghastly dancer. Whomever said women were all natural ballerinas was dreadfully mistaken in my case"

Peter chuckled "Well if helps, see that Nymph over there, well on my first birthday in Narnia my family threw me a ball. Well I turned the pool girl's feet blue I am sure of it. I danced all over her feet rather then all over the floor. I rarely dance"

Stephanie laughed and began to feel a little less awkward. "So I should count this a verrryy grand occasion indeed" She let herself relax in their dancing stance and let him lead her as gracefully as could be round the room. She felt somewhat like Cinderella, everyone had somehow turned they're eyes upon herself and the High King. She couldn't let herself be swept off her heels completely because like Cinderella she figured she'd turn back to a pumpkin. The pumpkin part being disappearing from Narnia maybe as randomly and quickly as she came in.

Eyes, she felt more eyes upon her. Familiar eyes. She darted her eyes here and there. There. Someone on the terrace. Peter spun her round and when she looked back to the terrace there was nothing. Perhaps it was just a shadow, she thought. The music ended and from where they finished Peter stood next to her and broke their embrace. But not completely, he still held her left hand, at the same height as they'd been dancing. He bid his Kingdom a final thank-you for making the festival a success and then a good night. Still holding Stephanie's hand he now stood in front of her. "Milady, I must thank your for this dance and most importantly for not turning my feet blue" he said in a stuffy voice, mocking an old English aristocrat. "Oh the pleasure was indeed all mine, thank-you my lord" Stephanie responded in as snooty a voice, bending her knees slightly to curtsey. They both chuckled and Peter kept his aqua blue eyes on hers, raised her hand to his lips, placing a sweet kiss upon it. "Goodnight, Stephanie" She was awed and in a very big effort not to swoon she mutter a good night in return. Both smiling they departed. She joined Susan and Lucy to make her way to bed.

"You looked brilliant" Susan said with a smile. "You know, Peter isn't fond of dancing. He usually makes some sort of exit before the final dance. You see its custom that the High King take the final dance. Usually we're the ones taking his place."

"He told me of his dancing follies with the Nymph on his birthday. He's a splendid dancer though"

They three girls passed an open terrace where Edmund and Isadora were. They were close together and swaying back and forth. Dancing to no music. The girls quickly continued on, giving the pair their privacy. Isadora would have to return home for some time tomorrow.

"You know your brother Edmund is such a little romancer. With all his secret meetings and moonlit dances, fevered kisses" Stephanie sighed "First love". Susan and Lucy laughed. Edmund used to be the sullen one of the bunch, but he'd grown into a fine young man. They reached the hallway of their bed chambers, bidding each other goodnight. Stephanie floated into her room. She didn't want to take her gown off, so she twirled around her room for a while. Pretending she was still dancing with Peter.

Meanwhile, Peter was making his way across the castle grounds to where the unicorns were readying themselves to depart. He wanted to meet with Braun before he left. Braun had been Peter's friend and noble steed during the battle of the white witch. Moments ago while preparing for bed Peter remembered the locket. With Aslan away, he figured Braun would be the best ancient to talk to. When he reached their tent, he found Edmund there as well. He was congratulating Braun on Oberon's selection into the royal cavalry along with a few other colts of the herd.

"Braun my dear mate, I am sad to see you go" Peter said joining him and his brother.

"My high king it has been wonderful and I shall return throughout the year"

"Your welcome at Cair Paravel anytime. Braun, I wish to discuss something with you before you leave. Its in regards to Stephanie" Peter said then turning to his fellow king. "Edmund you should be present to" The three set off for a quieter spot. Many were still celebrating late in to the night. They settled themselves along the edge of all the tents. Peter then started to tell Braun and Edmund of Stephanie's locket then her dreams and finally the woman in the portrait.

"How is that possible? For her to have a Narnian locket" asked Edmund "She's never set foot here before"

"I do not know my King, but it maybe significant" answered Braun

"Well, we do know there are gates from our world to Narnia, perhaps this was just another. I think the answer lies with the woman in the portrait." Peter responded

"That cannot be just coincidence!" said Edmund.

"I don't think so either Ed, but we will have to search the archives for this woman. What about the inscription, Braun do you recognize this scripture?" said Peter showing the locket to Braun.

"No, Sire I do not" replied Braun "Best check the libraries as you already suggested"

Peter nodded then he and Edmund decided that it would be best to retire for the night.

Several Days Later

Edmund and Peter had sent for the most knowledgable historians of Narnia. They'd searched all the archives within Cair Paravel and nothing was leading anywhere. The portrait had no indication of date or subject of any sort. They couldn't even be sure if the woman was indeed human or other. Peter was becoming agitated with the lack of progress. Stephanie had been having more dreams of the same sort. She was still unable to communicate with the woman. She also had the feeling of a familiar presence with her, every since the ballroom.

Edmund, Susan, Lucy, Tumnus and Stephanie were sitting in the castle gardens. Stephanie liked them all, and was having the time of her life. She glowed with new confidence and she was immediately made to feel right at home. Her family would be gratified to see how happy she was. If Evangeline should see her now, she thought.

Peter made his decision. Leaving his spot on the balcony where he'd been watching them. He strode towards them, finding Stephanie and his sisters laughing gaily at Edmunds witty remark. He took Stephanie aside.

"Stephanie, I'd like to speak with you?"

"Certainly, how can I be of service?"

Peter told her that he wished to take her outside the castle grounds. He wanted to begin riding some of the colts, and knowing her keen interest in horses, he invited her. However, he did have other intentions. Stephanie had become relatively close to his brothers and sisters over the short time she'd been here. She'd updated them on the status in England. Played games from there world and help entertain Lucy. She also offered Susan a good companion to share her thoughts to. There were some things best left between girls. The companionship Peter sought was more, he found himself becoming attracted to Stephanie. He desired to spend more time together and see where it could lead.

Peter ordered a lunch to be packed and brought to the cavalry's quarters. Him and Stephanie were meeting there to choose their mounts. Stephanie suggested Peter ride Oberon, for she knew he was a spectacular ride. Oberon recommended that Stephanie take a mare instead. Stephanie suspected that Oberon had feelings for the particular one he'd suggested. Willing to help a friend, she choose a beautiful dappled grey. There was no need for tacking the horses up, for both Stephanie and Peter were accustomed to riding bareback. Frieze appeared with their lunch and the pair departed. They road along the Great River and away from the Eastern shore. Peter wanted to take her to a secluded lake within the woods. Peter didn't reveal anything about the destination. Finally they came upon a small clearing fairly deep within the wood. The clearing was surrounded by a small rocky formation. The rocky formation gave way to a waterfall that crashed into a crystal blue lake. The foliage there was exotic and vibrant because of the nutrients provided by the lake.

"This place is stunning your majesty" Stephanie said as she dismounted her steed.

"I knew you would enjoy it, but please call me Peter" he said wanting to break the formality of their friendship.

"Thank-you…Peter"

Peter and Stephanie walked along shoulder to shoulder round the lake. They felt all was right in the world, having discussed their families, England and school and friends and how nice it was that they should be walking along such a gorgeous place in Narnia. Stephanie was relaxed and enjoyed Peter's company more than she had since she could remember.

"Do you think we should settle for lunch now" asked Peter turning back towards the horses.

"Yes, that would be nice" Stephanie followed

The pair settled next to the lake and enjoyed the sandwiches, fruits and desserts the kitchen had prepared for them. Peter playfully tossed a blueberry at her, bouncing it off her cheek, she gasped. Taking her share of grapes she threw one and it bounced off his nose. He then returned the gesture with a hand full of berries. Stephanie decided to up the score and took some grapes dipped them in cream and whipped them at Peter. Soon the two were covered in sticky fruit juice and souring cream. They looked at each other laughing. Peter stopped and grabbed her hand making a dash for the lake.

"Peter Pevensie! You wouldn't dare!" but he did. Did he ever. He grabbed Stephanie round her waist and sent them both plunging into the water. Stephanie surfaced her hair had flipped over and stuck to her face. Peter laughed at the state of her. "You…You.. OH!" she lunged forward trying to dunk him underwater. But he was much to fast for her. After many failed attempts to catch him. She'd had enough and was making her way to shore. Peter disappeared underneath the water, and emerged next to her. He grabbed her and tackled her back under the water. "Will you please stop!" Stephanie pleaded with him trying to squirm free. He held her in the water with a devilish grin, until her felt her shiver. He then let her go, swam a few feet ahead where he was able to stand in the water. He turned and offered his hand. Stephanie looked at him funny. "Yeah right, Peter like I will be letting you take my hand again!" She strode past him and onto shore. He laughed and followed. The two rung themselves out best they could and mounted back up. Enjoying their friendly competition, Stephanie galloped ahead. Yelling to Peter and Oberon that she and Ella, her mount, were going to beat them back to Cair Paravel.