Blessed
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Chapter 7: Peacemakers
"If there's ever going to be peace with the Telmarines, you have to be the one who brings it."
Peter's words still echoed in Caspian's head, even two years after the Pevensies had left. Peace. Now that would be a novel concept. At this rate, I'll never be able to fulfill my coronation oath. The king held back a groan as the leader of Telmarine half of his council rose to speak…again. "My lord king, surely you must recognize the benefits of such a proposal as ours."
Trufflehunter sighed. "And, sire, you also must see the disadvantages it places the Fauns at! To use Dancing Lawn for such things…it is unthinkable!"
The Telmarine lord exploded, "Under our plan it will actually be used for something! If you Narnians had your way, it would sit there, completely undeveloped and useless for everyone but your precious Fauns!"
Caspian leaned over to his Lord Chancellor, Dr. Cornelius. "I forgot what we're discussing," he whispered.
His former tutor gave him a fond but exasperated look. "We are discussing the negatives and positives of using Dancing Lawn as farmland. The Telmarines believe that its potential resources are being wasted if it is left as it is. The Narnians, of course, are taking the opposite side."
"Of course." Caspian ran his hand through his blond hair, trying (unsuccessfully) to block out the argument that would soon likely come to blows (which would add to the eight fights in the council so far that month…which was only halfway finished). Finally, he stood. "ENOUGH!"
Fortunately, everyone listened and fell silent. "Have you reached a conclusion, Sire?" the Telmarine leader asked respectfully.
"Yes. I have decided that, while you could possibly be correct about Dancing Lawn, developing it risks tearing the country apart, and that I cannot allow. Therefore, I must side with the Narnians." Caspian bit his lip. Doctor Cornelius might scold me for this later, but I must finally say it. "I also cannot bear moderating another shouting match today, so this council is adjourned." He did not wait for anyone to acknowledge his words before turning and striding out of the chamber.
*B*
Several hours later, Caspian found himself on the balcony off his room, head in his hands, with his elbows resting on the railing. "Aslan, why did You leave me in charge? I'm going to go mad if I have to lead one more meeting that ends in an argument! I can't take it anymore!"
A Voice startled him. "Son of Adam."
He whirled around, facing the Lion. "Aslan."
"Why do you doubt My choice of you? I know you are capable of leading Narnia, both her creatures and the Telmarines. I would not have placed you on the throne had I not trusted you."
"I know, but-"
"Caspian." The golden Voice cut him off gently. "Do you trust Me?"
"Of course."
"Then know that I am always with you and I will help you through the hard times."
"Yes, Aslan."
"I love you, My son, and I will never leave you." With that, the Lion disappeared. Caspian smiled slightly and went back inside.
Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God. (Matthew 5:9)
A/N: Who knows what oath Caspian referred to at the beginning?
Also, thanks to the unnamed Guest for reviewing.