Title: The Taste of Murder
Author: Rolletti
This story takes place during the Golden Age.
Sorry for the mistakes
Disclaimer: Yep, I do not own any part of C.S. Lewis' works, and I'm still regrettably poor.
Previous Chapter
After stepping out into the sun and fresh air, cleaned of all dead matter, Peter found his arms full of clean, fed siblings. He hugged them tight, couldn't get enough of them. Yes, the sun seemed brighter, the air smelled crisper, and Edmund's fist to his face was surprisingly unexpected. Standing over him Edmund was infuriated. Stars danced in his vision as he looked up at his brother from the ground.
"What did you do that for?" Peter winced rubbing his jaw.
Susan looked angry and sick all at once. "How could you, Peter!"
"How dare you, Peter!" shouted Lucy.
Chest heaving, Edmund stood over his loving brother and said between clenched teeth, "If you ever step foot on Hzan's land again, I'll break your overprotective neck!
Chapter 12
The mighty soldiers of Narnia were warriors, dedicated and loyal to Aslan, the Kings and Queens, and country. They faced their adversaries without fear, willing to destroy any threat to the Narnian way of life. Defeat was not an option. Facing angry monarchs addressing each others thoughtless self sacrifices, especially the kings, well nobody's perfect.
Stunned, Peter laid still where he landed.
Chest heaving, Edmund's fist turned white as his nails dug crescent moons into the palms of his hands. "This time you went too far, Peter! Have you no regard for the girls, for me?"
"Edmund…"
"Shut up, Peter! It was reckless and stupid! Obviously you succeeded, but…" Edmund turned whiter still as he remembered his condition days back.
The same realization dawned on the girls and they gasped. Susan knees nearly buckled, and Lucy saw the painful guilt wash across his Peters face. "My cordial, you had to drink it," she whispered in shock.
In the face of righteous anger the demon met his match, and quickly abandoned the High King, leaving him broken before his family. Reluctantly, Peter looked at his girls scared, worried faces, and soon found his arms full of little sisters who cried for their dear brother. A sob escaped him as he held on. "Edmund," he whispered, eyes pleading. Edmund's face crumpled before he fell to his knees to embrace his big brother.
"Peter, Peter," cried Edmund, resting his forehead against him. He was pulled into a desperate hug along with his sisters, tears becoming one as he said, "You're going to be all right," he whispered. "We'll all be all right."
For the first time since the kidnapping they all cried. They cried for those needlessly slain, cried for the orphans, cried for Narnia and each other.
Oreius watched over them sympathetically, silently he gave thanks to Aslan for uniting the four who He chose, and to help them bare the tragedy they must endure as monarchs and siblings. 'After all, they are only children.' He thought with what some of his subordinates called a father's heart towards the royals.
One tent with the royal colors of red and gold was erected. From past experience, Oreius knew they would all be found in one tent and didn't order another to be assembled.
It took half a day for Peter to reassure his siblings he was well. All four napped on the ground heavily padded with thick furs and blankets in one tent. The encampment was set half a mile away from the prison turned grave. It was hard to distinguish what child's body belonged to whom, as they were all intertwined, terrified to let each other go.
Peter did try to ease out from the grid of limbs made up of his siblings. But if he moved an arm, Lucy would wake with a gasp, looked at him then snuggled closer into him, gripping harder. If he moved his fingers Susan would squeeze tighter for her fingers were interlocked with his, and held his hand close to her heart and scooted closer. Edmund's legs were twined with his with no room for escape. He was thoroughly locked down. After another thirty minutes he tried again, but to no avail. He had no choice but to stay put and watch what he almost died for; his sweet, sweet siblings. Salty tears silently escaped. He looked up in time to see Edmund watching him. His brother reached across the girls and delivered a soft, gentle kiss to his forehead, and went back to sleep.
Two hours later found all four near the prison.
"I need to do something inside, and I want you all to wait out here."
"No," pleaded Lucy as she latched onto Peter. All three of them haven't allow him out of their sight. Peter leaned over and searched her face. "I saw Kelmer Raccoon's tail being worn by one of those miscreants. I know it's his because of the white patch at the tip. Only he had that patch. I want to take it home and bury it with him. It shouldn't be left here to burn with the murders."
The demon was gone, but evidence of him still lingered. Lucy could see it in her brother's eyes and hear it in his voice.
"Alright, Peter," said Lucy, but still had a hard time letting go. He peeled her off of him and gave her to Edmund, who hugged her tightly while watching his brother.
Susan stepped toward him when he turned to leave. "It's alright, I'll be back soon, and then we are off for home," Peter assured them, caressing her check.
All three watched as he was swallowed by the mouth of their prison. The image alone caused them to shiver. Oreius saw the anguish, and wondered if they were traumatized from the experience, which isn't likely, or the separation from their brother for so long. Their love was so powerful, and they loved so hard, not only for each other, but for Narnia.
Oreius immediately became a magnet once the children saw him. The soldiers hid their smiles, giving each other knowing looks when they saw the general with his arms full. Oreius had a serene look about him. He missed them just as much as they missed him.
"Thank you for watching over him," whispered Edmund.
Oreius hugged them tighter, but not too tight, he didn't want to squish them which he could easily do. He cleared his throat, and signaled for their horses. Receiving hugs when they first exited the building, before and after their naps, well he had an image to uphold and prepared them for their departure. Some soldiers looked at the sky, looked at their nails, hooves, or bit their lips. They did anything not to laugh at the enduring deed of the courageous, mighty Oreius.
"General, where is Philip?" asked Edmund.
"The High King wouldn't allow him onto treacherous land. He tried to follow anyway, twice, and the king had ten guards assigned to watch him until we returned.
Smoke followed Peter out of the shelter, the white tip of a raccoon's tail sticking out of the wrapped cloth. He jumped on the back of his Unicorn's back, and turned to have a good look at his siblings and they him. "Let's go home."
Peter lead them all home with urgency. There was no stopping until it was absolutely necessary for the night. Peter didn't trust the land, no one did, and the sooner they were out of there the better.
Later that evening.
One royal tent was set up in the center of a ring of torches. The place was so well lit to ward of any unsavory thing, you'd think it was daylight.
As all four sat eating their dinner a scout returned with news. "We found this bag of golden items; goblets, coins, jewelry, it was near a sandpit. I'm guessing the owner of this bag is at the bottom of that pit."
"I'm guessing that's Carson," said Edmund
Peter looked at the girls as they scooted closer to him. How he wished to rid them of their memories of the killings and kidnapping. "We'll never find the true owners; throw it into the nearest sandpit. Its tainted goods," said Peter.
For the first time in weeks they all slept all night and in peace.
After a hearty breakfast the king pushed the party harder in order to reach home. Now that he has reclaimed his treasures he wanted out of the wretched land. Hours of strenuous riding Edmund begged Peter to stop for the girl's sake for a drink of water. As both brothers looked back at their sister's weary faces, there was no question of the needed break.
There was a near-by brook where everyone drank and refilled their water pouches to last for a few hours. A handful of berries where given to the queens for a midday snack, which they ate rather quickly, staining their fingers and tongues.
"I'm sorry girls, but we must be on our way," said Peter apologetically.
Those who rode mounted their horses, except Lucy who was picked up by Oreius and gently placed on hers. Then they were off once again racing across the land at punishing speeds.
Not thirty minutes into their trek Lucy made an announcement.
"I need to relieve myself," she said blushing profusely. Word was sent at the head of the party, and Peter halted them once again.
"Lu, why didn't you go before we left?" he asked dismounting.
"I didn't have to then," said Lucy as Peter helped her down.
"Go near that tree with the purple leaves, we'll be right here."
Lucy turned to walk away then faltered. She turned back to look at Peter.
"Hurry, Lucy, we really must be going," said Peter.
"But, the Kelma spiders, what if one is there?"
"Just pee on it," Edmund chuckled.
Susan slapped the back of his head as she walked by, "Don't be vulgar, Ed. Come, Lucy, I'll go with you and hold your skirt, and keep the spiders away."
Peter grinned at Edmund as he rubbed his head. "I wonder if Aslan knows the Gentle Queen isn't always gentle?" Edmund frowned.
"Even I saw that coming," Peter grinned.
Everyone started when they heard terrible screams erupted from the queen's location and ran towards them. There was a man with a sword drawn about to strike Lucy. Unfortunately for the kidnapper, he did not hear the king's approach from behind. Peter kicked him in the back knocking the air out of him as he landed on his stomach. Before he could breathe again, Edmund held him down by the neck with his boot, and put his knee on his sword arm and pulled until he heard a horrific break.
Susan crushed Lucy to her and turned their heads away from the gore and the ferocious expression on Edmund's face.
"I have had enough!" To illustrate that point, he kept pulling until the bone protruded out of the man's skin, a tremendous amount of blood pooled beneath him. The savage scream from their nightmare was horrific, he was too shocked from the pain to retaliate.
The grass and shrubs began to quiver, then immediately the ground began to shake.
"RUN!" screamed Peter as he grabbed Lucy, Edmund and Susan quickly followed. Peter promptly mounted his Unicorn behind Lucy as she gripped its mane. With his sibling's safe on their horses, they and their company ran as if the Hzans were literally on their tails. Enormous sharp, black roots exploded from the ground seeking the blood and its source it was blessed with, and enveloped the man pulling him under. His screams were immediately ceased. After a small tremor, the ground resettled.
The Narnians did not stop. They did not stop to eat, drink or rest. The little queen decided she could hold it.
NnNnNnNn
After they settled in the tent after dinner, the camp became solemn listening to their soft cries. They were strong, warriors, monarchs yes, but they were children and children can only take so much.
Oreius checked on the monarchs in the middle of the night, and found them all wrapped so tight with each other he wondered if they were having circulatory problems. Sweet Lion, see them home safe in Cair Paravel soon.
Came morning the guards knew the High King would want to leave immediately, but despite that, a spread of fried meat, eggs, fruit and hot tea was put before them. They would care properly for their children at the beginning of the new day. Scouts will double their efforts, no one will go off alone, and a designated privy for the royals will be thoroughly searched and searched again. There will be no tears to fall asleep to that day, not if the small band of military could help it.
They all rode harder still towards home, Peter constantly looking back at his siblings, and their eyes were constantly on him.
"How many more do you think are out there, and why was that idiot so far up towards Narnia? Do you think there is another plot that we don't know of?" asked Edmund worried.
"I believe there are only a few out there, but the land will take care of them. That fellow no doubt was turned around; you know how easy it is to get lost out here if you don't know what you are doing," said Peter while everyone took a water break. Peter saw how troubled his brother was. "Don't worry Edmund, once we get back Home I'll have the border patrol doubled for the southwest in for a month, and have each village checked along those borders. We will not leave our good Cousins defenseless.
"How are you Peter?" asked Edmund.
Peter looked away to get another drink and said, "I'm well, Edmund. Gather the girls, let's go," said Peter on the way to his Unicorn.
"You can run, but you can't hide my King," said Edmund as he watched Peter's steps falter then continue.
NnNnNnNn
"Who is that on the road?" said Enre Raccoon squinting although she's wearing her spectacles.
"I don't know, but they are coming this way. You don't suppose those men have returned," asked her granddaughter. Her voice held a bit of fear.
A child came running towards them shouting, "It's the kings and queens! They've been found, they're here!" and off he ran to inform everyone in Raccoon Village.
"By the Lion, it's the kings and queens! Quick, Reena get my cap and lace shawl, and my cane, don't forget the cane. The kings and queens, imagine that!"
"Yes, grandmother!"
Excitement spread throughout the village as word arrived of the un-expectant appearance of the royals. The villagers couldn't wait for them to reach their homes, so they ran, some hobbled, out to meet their Majesties and guards. They ran waving ribbons, feathers, and palms as high as they could, which wasn't very high at all. But the Four saw them, and smiled through tears to see their sweet subjects who have suffered so much loss.
When all four stood before the mass, every Raccoon bowed. Lucy knelt and hugged the grandmother who stood before her.
"Oh dear, why, thank you, Queen Lucy. What a blessing," said Enre.
The elected Mayor for Raccoon village spoke for everyone in attendance. "Thank you your Majesties for taking the time to leave Cair Paravel to visit us."
"My brother and sisters have only just been found. We haven't been home yet, we wanted to come and see how you are doing. There is nothing we can do to bring back your loved ones, but we would like to help ease the pain of their loss all the same," spoke Peter. Everyone stood in awe of the High Kings address. The grave faces of the younger royals spoke of their true sorrow for the loss of their people.
A young raccoon stepped forward and touched Edmund's leg. "My dad delivered truffles to the castle when special guest arrived or balls are hosted."
Edmund knelt to converse with the young lad. "Did your father die at the picnic?"
"Yes," he said, downcast.
"What's your name?" asked Edmund.
"Blue, Sire."
"Was your mother at the picnic too, Blue?" asked Edmund, afraid of the answer.
"No, she was sick that day. There she is over there with my brothers and sister."
Edmund tilted his head at the family, and walked towards them. Blue followed behind.
"Your Majesty," the mother said in awe as she curtsied.
"Madem. I'm sorry to hear the loss of your husband. If you would permit me to be so bold, I am in need of a Paige. If you would permit it, I would like to employ young Blue here to compensate for your husband's lost wages. He would live at the castle of course, but will be permitted to come home on the weekends. However, due to your recent loss, I will be willing to wait a month before he joins our household."
Mrs. Lorea Raccoon was speechless. Just that morning she was praying to Aslan for a miracle. She watched the children cared for their household as her husband went to work. Since his death they lived off of savings and bartered. Her husband was very frugal, and always spoke of the wisdom of saving for a rainy day. Lorea was sure if he only knew it would come at the cost of his life he would have tripled his efforts. "Would you like that, son?"
"Yes, mother. Could I? We could use the money and father always said family should stick together," said Blue excitedly.
"Very well, I'll see you in a month's time, Blue. I'll leave word with the guards."
"Thank you, Your Majesty," said Mrs. Raccoon with tears in her eyes.
Peter was finishing his speech when Edmund returned.
"Therefore, when I get back to the castle, the funds put aside for emergencies will be distributed until jobs can be found to replace loss wages. Again, I am deeply grieved, deeply sorry for the atrocities against you, against Narnia. We love you, and feel the loss of our dear Cousins." Susan wiped away her tears as Edmund held Lucy.
"We love you too Your Majesties," someone bellowed. Cheers were shouted; ribbons and palms were waved in the air as the royal party prepared to leave for home.
Two hours before they reached Raccoon Village, a sweet little Bird spotted them, and immediately flew to inform Mr. Tumnus and Mr. Fox. Along the way she informed the Citizen of Narnia. She was so excited hardly anyone could understand her, but they could decipher, "spotted, here, kings, queens, pretty." The old Elephant who was caught bathing almost blew her out of the sky with water because of his surprise. A Cat was about to delve into a well earned catch of salmon when he was rudely interrupted. His irritation was quickly replaced by jubilance, that he immediately ran to tell the others and forgetting his meal. Ms. Sloth smiled about the homecoming despite her irritation at moving so slow. Hastily written notes were left in the letterboxes of those who had nocturnal neighbors, so they wouldn't be deprived of the good news. The road leading up to Cair Paravel was crowded with well wishers who cheered once they saw their beloved monarchs. The Four waved as they were escorted by the General and the few captains who were chosen for the hunt and rescue. Citizens came from high and low, far and wide as word got out, throwing petals, waving ribbons and some outright wailed in joy to see their kings and queens return. Phillip came barreling out of the gates; the guards could hold him no longer, towards Edmund. He was met with equal enthusiasm as the young king jumped off his horse to hug Phillip.
"My boy, my boy," was all Phillip could say without bawling like a colt. Some thought it was quite presumptuous of Phillip to say so, but this was not the time for criticizing. Edmund took his rightful place and Phillip, with his head held high, proudly walked him Home through the gates of the castle.
A feast of feasts was prepared as soon as Mrs. Dear, the head cook of Cair Paravel, got word her royals were sighted. Phillip wasn't the only one who laid claim on the monarchs. If Oreius was the father, then Mrs. Dear, a Panda, was the mother. The children may be tired, but they will have their bellies filled before bed. She even had a tray of fresh fruit, cheese, bread, and pitchers filled with water in each room of their apartments.
The kings and queens were escorted to their thrones, hugs and kisses were exchanged, speeches made, food passed around along with songs of triumph and sorrow. Word was sent, rather sternly to Oreius, respectfully, by the kings valets and the queens ladies-in-waiting to have the royals, who were falling asleep on their thrones sent to their royal rooms. Hot bubble baths were prepared and waiting for their charges. Those in attendance submerged and soak the children until days of crusty dirt were loosened. Every crevice and every ear was scrubbed and checked and rechecked for residue. Even every head of hair was thoroughly washed and checked for lice. Concerning Susan's long hair, it was an extensive process. Peter was meticulously shaven where his face was soon baby smooth. Edmund always had a baby smooth face, therefore, there was nothing to shave. Peter thought it was cute as Edmund was always searching for any evidence of manly hair.
They were each tucked into their beds of soft mattresses, silky sheets and piles of fluffy goose down pillows. The littlest night light was lit, by order of the High King despite her age, and a 'good night' was whispered as the doors were securely closed.
Old clothes and shoes were thrown into the fire located in the laundry room with such hatred. The ladies-in-waiting and valets never wanted to see those objects again on their royals. Not one lace, ribbon or belt survived that night as they were soon turned to ash.
After every well wisher went to bed more cakes, roasted veggies, meats, fruits, cheese and wine weighed down countless tables. The Great Hall was filled with nocturnal celebrators who rejoiced just as much, and just as long, as their counterparts.
Upstairs in the royal wing of the castle all was quiet. Before Oreius retired for the evening he checked with the High Kings guards, and all was reported well. He peaked in the bedroom and what he saw was no surprise; three young royals were wrapped around their eldest brother in his king sized bed. It was expected.
Well into the night Susan began to kick at the covers. Next she began whining in her sleep calling out for Peter. "Sshhh, I'm here Su," said Peter stroking her sleep warm cheek.
Sleepy eyes fluttered open into slits, and she watched her brother between both worlds of dreams and reality. "Peter, the Hzans killed you," a tear escaped.
"No my love, I'm right here with you, very much alive," he whispered.
"Don't leave me, Peter. Don't ever leave me." Peter leaned over a clingy, sleeping Lucy and softly kissed his elder sister. Sleep immediately reclaimed her.
"She was strong you know," whispered Edmund, woken by Susan, both girls between them. "But towards the end, right before you showed up, I detected she was wearing thin. Her fear for you exhausted her just as much as being held prisoner. Our dear Su was so brave," Edmund brushed Susan's hair behind her ear and kissed her as well.
Edmund sleepily eyed his big brother who suffered still. "I love you, Peter. I love you, and miss you."
"I'm right here, Ed," said Peter as he took the hand lying across Susan.
"No, you're not, but I can wait as long as it takes. My love for you is knows no bounds my brother, my King." Edmund closed his eyes, exhaust claimed him once again.
Peter watched his siblings as they lay nestled against him. He loved them so much he felt his heart could burst. Their soft breathing was a sound he could never tire of. It meant they were alive and safe in their home, safe with him. They are the only immediately family he has, and as years have slipped past none of them remember where they came from. Tumnus once told them they came from a country called Spare Oom, but they could not find it on the map.
He wondered just how they were separated from their parents. As he watched his siblings he also wondered if they were all missed, if they were loved by these parents. Did they love with a love like he holds for his siblings? When they are in danger his love becomes a large destructive fire, consuming all in his path in order to reach them, to keep them safe. He kissed his Valiant's cheek as she sighed in content, as if she knows in her sleep she is secure in her big brothers arms. He praised Aslan again for watching over them, for bringing them back to him alive and safe.
He couldn't help the tears that rolled down into his pillow.
With his siblings state of exhaust Peter was able to crawl out of bed. It took some maneuvering, some of that he spent frozen in place until they relaxed in sleep again, but he managed to escape their entangled limbs.
His guards were surprised to see him, and Peter was surprised to see double the amount of guards at his door. "General Oreius orders Your Majesty," said one of the guards.
"That sounds like the general," smiled Peter tying his robe.
"He also ordered triple the guards at the gates and around the castle."
"He's quite thorough, and I appreciate it," said Peter as he glanced back at the door.
"Is there something you are in need of Your Majesty? Something I can have sent to your rooms?" asked the Faun.
"No, no thank you. I can't sleep. I'll just walk the halls until I can clear my mind," said Peter. Before he turned to leave he said, "My greatest treasures are in that room."
"Yes Your Majesty, we will guard all three with our very lives. Although we are many feet up from the ground, there are guards posted beneath your balcony too. The General has left nothing to chance," said the Faun as he bowed before the High King.
"Thank you, all of you," smiled Peter before walking away slowly on his own.
"Your Majesty, should you not take one of us with you?"
"The way the General has this place locked up I see no danger," snickered Peter, and walked away.
The guards gave each other a knowing look. General Oreius will not be pleased about the kings late night wandering when he should be getting much needed sleep. They can't make him go back to his rooms, he's the High King after all.
Aloysius was new to his post, his mother was so proud of him. No one in his immediate family served the crowns, and he was chosen by the great General Oreius himself. He was a bit lean, but he was fast and agile like King Edmund. The General said so after a mock battle on the fields. He stood at attention at all times, because you never knew who was watching. At the moment no one was, but that did not discourage him from his duty. He guarded the garden door, and he was determined to guard it like none other. Although there were many doors that led out to the gardens, and that one was least used, still he would do his best.
He's never met anyone important. Well, he did see a Duke once. He was the biggest Bear he'd ever seen. He was sucking his paws in what he thought was in secret. What the high bred did was no concern to him. That is what he was taught by his captain. 'Whatever you over hear or whatever you see, keep it to yourself. To work in the castle you must seem invisible, but you must remain vigil.'
Aloysius saw someone in the distance. He stood taller, shoulders back and at attention. Obviously by the persons approach they were coming to evaluate him on the job. He would make his mother prouder still; give her something to brag about to her neighbors. The figure drew closer which baffled Aloysius, because of how he approached. He didn't seem to be in a hurry; as a matter of fact he was walking as if he was taking a leisurely stroll. The hall wasn't lit very well, neither were the rooms, but he could tell he was a "he". Tall wide shoulders... surely it wasn't any of the kings. He had never met either, and told his excited mother he probably never shall. He was only a lowly private. The guard blinked, because surely that was a son of Adam approaching. Was it a son of Adam? His eyes grew bigger when he saw the torch reflect the color of his hair as he passed it; blond. Only one person in all of Narnia had that straw color hair; the High King. The most powerful ruler in all of Narnia was walking towards him.
Air was caught in Aloysius' throat. He tried to swallow it, but it was stuck, like eating too much peanut butter all at once. Before he knew it the High King stood before him.
"Hello," said Peter in greeting.
Aloysius bowed three times, and very clumsy indeed, before he was able to squeak out, "Your Majesty."
"I don't believe we've ever met. Are you part of the new recruits?"
"Yes, yes, Your Majesty. General Oreius signed me up a few months ago," he said nervously. He did not freeze. His mouth was suddenly dry and he felt like his bones were about to turn to dust, but he did not freeze.
"You are guarding this door very well. The General will hear about this. "What is your name?" Peter tried to put him at ease. If the guard's eyes got any bigger they may fall out.
"Aloysius, Your Majesty," he said with another bow. He could not believe the High King of Narnia just paid him a compliment. He couldn't wait to tell his mother.
"Well, Aloysius, it's a pleasure to meet you."
"The pleasure is all mine, Your Majesty, I'm sure."
"Does your family live near here, Aloysius?" He was surprised to see the king lean against the door frame relaxed as can be.
"A day's journey, it's just me and my mother. I haven't started a family of my own, I haven't met that special someone yet," he blushed. What are you doing, the king doesn't want to hear about this! "I mean, yes, Your Majesty.
"I have a family, but I assume you knew that already," Peter snickered.
"Yes, all of Narnia does. My mother saw Queen Susan once! She was going somewhere heavily guarded, but it was from a distance."
"The Queen doesn't like it, but I make sure the girls are properly guarded when they go out. Unfortunately…I gave in and only allowed a few guards for the picnic. They are my responsibility, I should have known better."
"Surely you are not blaming yourself for what happened, Your Majesty." Did he just question the High King? He was going to lose his position! Oh his poor mother will suffer the shame.
"I turn into someone I don't even recognize when my family is threatened. I know this. I should have known better," said Peter, his eyes stinging. "I wish to step outside into the garden," he said abruptly.
Aloysius eyes grew bigger than they already were. He couldn't believe the request because it was pouring out there.
He did not interfere. How could he? One does not say no to the High King. He did not question, only opened the door.
Peter stepped outside and remained under the canopy to Aloysius relief. Then he took one step out into the storm. Then another and another until he was out of sight. Aloysius didn't know what to do! He couldn't leave his post, but surely someone needed to know that the king was out in the rain. But then again he was the High King who chose to walk in the rain. Who's to say he couldn't?
He got his answer as an infuriated second Son of Adam came barreling through grumbling to himself. All Aloysius could make out was 'daft belligerent idiot' as he marched into the storm in what Aloysius was to assume, in search for his brother.
Aloysius mouth opened and closed like a fish out of water. He has seen both kings in one night! Wait until mother hears about this!
Peter couldn't walk any further, the burden of what he became again to save his siblings weighed heavy on his very soul. It was a detrimental blow as he saw himself through his mind's eye; he allowed himself to be consumed by pure hatred. The rain did not cleanse him, only stirred and churned up the venom in his heart, his tears were evidence of his sins, and condemnation shook him to his very core. Overwhelmingly broken, Peter fell to his knees screaming. Someone made mention of a wounded animal in the rain and how they felt sorry for it.
"Why, why, Aslan, do I do this? Why did I not ask you to help me? Look what I become without you, why didn't I call on you to help me first?" he cried facing the rain soaked sky. "I fail every time, Aslan, every time. I took pleasure in my enemies suffering, but…THEY TOOK WHAT BELONGS TO ME AND I TOOK PLEASURE IN HOW THEY DIED!" Peter screamed into the ground, grabbing fistful of grass and mud.
"But they belonged to me first, Peter."
Peter looked up, and there He was; Aslan. He could barely see Him through his tears and rain, but he blindly crawled towards the King of Kings. So overwhelmed with grief he couldn't sit up, he could only bury his face in Aslan's paws. "Please Aslan, please forgive me," he cried.
Aslan licked Peter as he cried like a lost child. "Shhh, I forgive you my son. It is wrong to take pleasure in someone's demise, and a lesson you must learn, but it will not be today."
Peter cried all the harder.
"You will learn, Peter, but for now this is who you are when your family and kingdom are threatened. But you will learn, just be patient. The first step in that lesson and the most important is to call on me for everything," Aslan continued to lick and nudge Peter as he cried. "I see you, Peter, praying alone at your throne, praying for wisdom, for guidance, your people and your children. I see your tears you shed for all of Narnia, but you must call and trust me for everything. Peter look at me," Aslan commanded.
Peter sat up, but couldn't let go as he held onto Aslan's mane.
"You have done everything and more to keep your family safe." Peter's eyes lowered. "Look at me, Peter. You keep them safe, sometimes too safe," Aslan smiled at the overprotective big brother he hears so much about in his siblings prayers. "The Narnians who died did not die in vain. Countless children were saved from Galenor and his men. I have allowed one to escape to tell the tale of Narnia's High King, and how he feels about his siblings and his people. Galenor's partner and his men did not make it back to continue the atrocities against innocent children. The ground gave way and they all fell into a cave inhabited by Krim vipers. They went blind before they were devoured whole. You have a tendency to accept the blame for everything, even those events beyond your control. Do not blame yourself for what happened at the Raccoon Village picnic." Aslan kissed him again with another lick.
Meanwhile, Lucy and Susan woke up. And they were not happy.
TBC