Peculiar, thinks Edmund by himself. His eyes have rested on Luna since she emerged from below deck. A smile is plastered on her face which she tries and fails to suppress. Something is up. The Just King can't imagine much that would get Luna of all people in such a chipper mood; she is known as a stern general, after all. A protector at the king's side who watches over him like a hawk. Edmund rolls his shoulders and decides to find a better spot to watch whatever this day is yet to bring.

It is true. Luna beams. She can't help it. She tries, but not her whole heart is in it. On the opposite, it would have her grinning from ear to ear and just laugh from the joy she is feeling. This, however, would go too far for the warrior. So, it comes down to the smile on her lips which refuses to be forced away as she goes about the middle deck to inquire about their position and further course.

Soon, Caspian steps outside. Edmund, perched at the front deck-railing overlooking the middle deck, narrows his eyes as his friend's gaze darts around until it settles on a mutual friend. Ed can't suppress a smirk at the grin flickering over the king's face. He doesn't even try to hide it but looks away quickly.

» What are you squinting at? « Reepicheep nudges Ed's leg before he jumps onto the railing. The mouse's eyes find Luna purposefully as if he already knew the answer to that question. Ed rises an eyebrow but doesn't get to reply. Lucy emerges on his right, slipping her arm through his.

» Guys, aren't we too suspicious? « The Queen of Old glances down at the middle deck where Luna has made her way over to Caspian. The two can't take their eyes off each other as they converse, totally oblivious that they are being watched. Edmund shrugs,

» Eh, I think we're good. But...you know what's going on? «

» Know what? « Another voice cuts in. Startled, all three friends turn around to find a confused Eustace standing there, trying to get a glimpse of whatever Reep and his cousins are discussing. Ed exchanges a look with his sister. Aslan, what are they supposed to tell the boy? What is there to tell, anyways – well, what is theirs to tell at least?

» Ah, what's there to know, « Lucy smiles, slinging an arm around Eustace's shoulders, trying to lead him away. Meanwhile, Edmund addresses Reep, leaving her to deal with their youngest friend,

» How long has that been going on? « He just hopes he doesn't blurt out Caspian's secret here but, judging by the mouse's knowing smirk and subtle lift of his brow, he doesn't need to worry. That secret seems not really worthy of its name.

» Better question is, when hasn't it? « Reepicheep chuckles, memories playing in his head. He doesn't intend to say much to the matter, it certainly isn't his place to spill what he observed.

» You're talking about Caspian and Luna, right? « Ed flinches at Eustace's remark, whirling towards the boy – honestly, he thought Lucy would take him to have tea or look for dolphins or more merpeople. However, here they both are, perched at the railing as Ed has been for the past hour or so. As everyone merely stares at him, Eustace shrugs nonchalantly,

» What, I've read stories... «

Lucy giggles at her brother's shocked face. She wouldn't have taken her cousin for someone to read fairy tales and love stories either – especially as he always claimed to only read 'useful' literature – but she is pleasantly surprised. Nevertheless, she shushes him. As it seems, they have all noticed their friends' off behaviour, so no need to spell it out. They will tell them when they are ready; if there is something to tell.

~

» There, « Drinian points towards the horizon where a literal silver lining stands apart from the blue of sea and sky. The captain hands Caspian a telescope to see for himself.

» What is it? « Asks the king, passing the telescope on to Luna. She stands next to him at the railing of the poop deck, eyes narrowed against the sunlight.

» No idea, « the captain shakes his head,

» But with this wind we'll reach it tomorrow morning. « Cas gives a curt nod, gaze wandering to his Crown Shield. She holds the telescope in front of her, one eye closed as she peers through it. He smiles lightly. While waiting for her to finish her observation, he notices the rest of the six friends on the front deck – perched at the railing, looking in his direction. They don't seem like they stand there by chance. He creases his brows, alerting Luna with a soft brush of his hand against her arm. Lowering the telescope, she turns to him. She follows his line of sight to find the same image: Eustace, Lucy, Edmund and Reep like birds on a line, watching the circus. Now, one by one, they start grinning.

» Aslan's sake... « Luna grumbles, blushing.

~

Drinian was right, the next morning the Dawn Treader reaches the Silver Sea. Only, not the water itself  is silver, but the thousands and thousands of delicate flowers floating on its surface. Lucy is delighted about the lilies, decorating the whole ship, and gifting one to every sailor who crosses her path. Meanwhile, the captain, the kings and the knights discuss how to proceed.

As the water becomes so shallow that the Dawn Treader can go no farther, Caspian orders one of the longboats to be lowered. The king, Lucy, Edmund, Eustace, Luna, and Reepicheep board it after a few whispered goodbyes. The crew waves at the six friends as their boat makes its way through the white lilies. The flowers exude a heavy scent, a sweet and overpowering fragrance. It makes Luna dizzy after inhaling a few deep breaths. However, the magical atmosphere may do its part as well. The friends dwell in silence, they are caught in their own thoughts, captured by the beauty of their surroundings. The lilies colour the ocean in white and silver, their petals rarely allow a glimpse of the water's blue surface. The Dawn Treader grows smaller in the distance by the minute, a current now carries the longboat onward – Cas and Ed put the paddles aside. Along with the fragrant air, a gentle breeze caresses the adventurers, sunlight kissing their skin – it lulls them into a dreamlike state as they venture on.

Luna couldn't say how much time has passed as Reepicheep climbs to the front of the boat, announcing their arrival just as wood creaks on sand. For a moment, they remain as they are, hands in their laps, exchanging glances. As Luna lifts her eyes from her companions, her lips part in astonishment. Before them lies a white-golden shore that seems to stretch endlessly left and right. Ahead, though, a wall of water extends into the sky. The warrior's first instinct is to hurry back, away from the massive wave, but she doesn't move. Her heart has grown serene, still captive to nature's lullabies. Not even the thought of what could happen at the end of the world lets her heart grow heavy right now.

» Come, friends, « Reep gestures for them to follow him as he jumps off the longboat into the shallow water. One by one they rise and do the same.

As they walk ashore, Caspian's hand finds Luna's as if it was the most natural thing in the world – maybe it is. The closer they get to the wave, the stronger grows the wind, pulling at their hair and clothes. There, Eustace points to their right where a shadow flickers over the sand. First, the dark silhouette is small, shaped like a lamb. As it nears it grows into the shadow of a larger beast.

» Aslan! « They call in unison as it is indeed the Great Lion now standing before them.

» Welcome, children, « He speaks, golden eyes looking at each one,

» You've done very well on your long journey. « Lucy beams at Him, barely able to stand still. Edmund, too, smiles while Eustace has no idea how to act. They all bow their heads, paying their respects to the creator of this world.

» Is this Your country, Aslan? « Lucy blinks against the sun as the lion shakes His head,

» No, « He gestures towards the great wave,

» My country lies beyond. « For a moment, Luna thinks the wave's crown lowers ever so slightly to allow a glimpse of snow-covered mountaintops. White foam splashes into the air, carried down to them in a light spray.

Luna feels Caspian's hand withdraw from hers. As she glances at him, she finds him staring at the wave, hands over his eyes to shield them from the sun.

» Is my father in Your country? « Asks Caspian. It shouldn't be a surprise; he carries this weight with him so long now. The loss of his parents as he was just a child hurt him deeply and, apparently, it still does. Luna resists the urge to rest a reassuring hand on his shoulder. This is something he must face with Aslan guiding him, it is not her place to interfere. However, her will to resist is tested.

» You may find out for yourself, « Aslan replies with His calm voice,

» But a word of warning; if you continue, you cannot return. « Everyone stays silent and watches Caspian turn to face the wave. The turquoise water rushes upwards, white foam crowning its top. Slowly, Caspian walks towards it. Luna wants to run after him or call out to him at least, but she shouldn't. As he lifts a hand and his fingers graze the water, she freezes and holds her breath. Is he... Will he really leave? Just like that? A hand finds hers and gives it a squeeze. Luna can't tear her gaze away from Caspian, but she is grateful for Lucy's silent support. The queen is such a dear friend to her, as are her brother and her cousin. She is glad, they all are with them on this journey. Reepicheep comes up next to her, watching their king as well. Luna releases a shaky breath, glancing at Aslan from the corner of her eyes. The Great Lion stands still, His mane billowing in the wind. He watches the king with gentle eyes, His posture doesn't give away any of His thoughts. In the end, His thoughts are not their thoughts.

Finally, Caspian turns back around, his hand dropping to his side. He hesitates before returning to the others. He hangs his head, shoulders slumped forward.

» You aren't going? « Inquires Edmund quietly. Caspian lifts his head. Tears glimmer in his eyes, showing raw emotion. To see him so desperate breaks Luna's heart a little. However, she still stands frozen to the spot.

» I don't think my father would be very proud, if I gave up what he died for, « Caspian answers, squaring his shoulders. His gaze finds Luna, and the life returns to his eyes,

» I spent too long wanting what was taken from me and not what...and who was given. «

» I was given a kingdom, « he swallows,

» People. « The tears roll freely down his cheeks, and he takes a timid step towards them. Now, she can't hold back anymore. Luna's feet move without her thinking anything else as to get to him as fast as possible. Just a moment later, they find themselves in a tight embrace. She feels hot tears on her face as well. Caspian slings his arms around her middle, pulling her close. He buries his face at her shoulder, moving one arm upwards over her back. She holds him just as tight, one arm around his torso, the other snaked over his shoulder.

» I'm sorry, « he mumbles but she shushes him gently. It is and will be alright. As Aslan strides towards them, they reluctantly pull away, but Caspian takes her hand as they face the Great Lion.

» I promise to be a better king, « he says and squeezes her hand at his next words,

» And to be more considerate of both our hearts. « Luna doesn't dare to look over to him, fearing to get all emotional, more so than already. Aslan nods His head.

» You already are, « He replies and looks them over before stepping closer to breathe on them. It feels like a sweet breeze in spring when the last snow melts and the first flowers bloom. A shiver runs down her back, of the good kind.

» Your bond shall be blessed, my children, « says He.

Then, Aslan turns to face the others, His gaze sweeps over the three visitors of another world before coming to rest on Edmund expectantly. Lucy smiles, taking a step towards the lion.

» Perhaps it's time for us to return home, « Edmund's words let his sister freeze, the smile drops from her lips as she whirls around. They exchange a few hushed words.

Eustace lowers his eyes to the ground before glancing towards his new-found friends. He doesn't want to leave them behind, and he still wishes to see Narnia – this magical land his four cousins are always talking about so fondly. He would have never thought but he wants to believe in the stories that are only fairy tales at home. Well, he met a few and he is grateful for that. A talking mouse has become his dearest friend, a satyr taught him how to tie knots into the thick ropes and lines, he learned to use a real sword from a female knight... No, Eustace doesn't want this adventure to end just yet. Then again, Ed's words strike deep, he misses his parents, his friends – well, his only friend back home – Jill. There, Reepicheep clears his throat, hopping towards Aslan.

» Your Eminence, « the mouse lifts the feathered ring from his head and bows deeply.

» Ever since I can remember I've dreamt to see Your country, « he speaks as the lion lowers His head,

» I've... I've had great adventures here, but nothing has dampened that yearning. « Reep fidgets with the circlet in his paws, looking up into Aslan's kind eyes,

» I know I'm hardly worthy but, with Your permission... « he glances over his shoulder to his friends,

» I'd lay down my sword for the joy of seeing Your country. « Eustace presses his lips together to supress a sob, tears already sitting on his cheeks. He can't imagine how hard this must hit Luna and Caspian who have called the brave mouse a friend for years.

» My country was made for noble hearts, « Aslan speaks,

» Such as yours. «

Once again, Reep bows before the majestic lion. Luna notices the expression of sheer joy and excitement on his small features. She releases a ragged sigh, leaning into Caspian unconsciously. In return, he pulls her closer by their intertwined hands.

» No one could be more deserving, « he tells Reep whose ears twitch in surprise,

» Well, ah... Your Majesty- «

» It's true, « Ed agrees with a smile and bows his head respectfully, the mouse returning the gesture. Then it's Lucy's turn to say goodbye. After she hugged him, Luna kneels in her place while Cas remains standing behind her to give the two some space. Tears sit on her lashes as she gazes at her old friend, trying to memorize every detail from his ears down to the tip of his tail. He moves closer, hopping into her arms.

» You'll be alright, « he whispers, wiping the tears from her cheeks,

» You're in very good hands. « He looks over her shoulder at Caspian, his whiskers tickling her throat.

» I expect you to take care of her, Your Majesty, « he demands with a stern face. She hugs him tightly, releasing a shaky laugh. He chuckles. They all know that she is plenty capable to take care of herself, but Reepicheep needs to be sure his companion's heart is paid attention to as well.

» I will, « Caspian promises as Luna sets her friend down.

» Goodbye, Luna, may we meet again, « he whispers. Her voice breaks as she replies,

» Goodbye, my friend. «

» You'll be dearly missed, Reepicheep, « the king says solemnly and offers his hand to Luna to draw her back to her feet. He then proceeds to sling an arm around her waist as she sniffles. Reep nods at him and bows,

» My king, « he turns to Luna once more,

» My queen. « She tilts her head, not ready for that thought. Her heart clenches as the mouse gifts her a smile and turns to Eustace who dropped to his knees. At the boy's question if he will never see Reepicheep again she turns her head away, pressing into Cas' shoulder. She needs a moment to gather herself and he is more than willing to hold her, shielding her from the truth for a while.

Finally, Reepicheep paddles the coracle up the wave. At the top he turns and waves one last time at the remaining five friends. Then, he glides into his new adventure, fulfilling the condition for the sleeping lords to awaken. The Tall Mouse will never again be seen in Narnia, but his memory remains forever. Watching her best friend sail over that wave is indescribable. Luna already misses him; she will do so forever. Reep holds a place in her heart, and she will never let go of the memories they share. Oddly enough, him disappearing from her sight doesn't rip a cruel hole in her heart, deep down she knows he is in a better place. Her free hand grips onto her belt where, next to Ivelle, a small rapier is fastened. Reep entrusted her with it, to deliver to his cousin who will take his place as leader of the mice.

Lucy doesn't wipe the tears away as she turns to Aslan. She suspects what He is probably going to tell them, that this was their last time in Narnia. The Queen of Old simply strides towards Him, slinging her arms around Him and burying her face in His mane.

» You have grown up, dear one, « the lion speaks gently,

» Just like Peter and Susan. « Edmund puts a hand on his sister's shoulder, the other carefully stroking over Aslan's fur.

» Will you visit us? « Lucy mumbles, her voice shaky,

» In our world? « A slight smile flickers over His features as He nudges her,

» I will be watching you always. «

» There, I have another name, « He adds, glancing at Edmund and Eustace,

» You must learn to know me by it... «

Luna feels Caspian tense next to her as he realizes their friends must leave. She squeezes his hand, pulling him closer to the others.

Eustace stares at his feet, tears blurring his vision. First, he had to say goodbye to Reepicheep, now to the rest of Narnia. Luna slings an arm around the boy's shoulders as he shuts his eyes tightly, causing more tears to roll over his cheeks.

» This was the very reason you were brought to Narnia, « Aslan explains further,

» By knowing me here a little, you may know me better in your world. « Eustace flinches at the Great Lion's roar, opening his eyes. The wave shifts. A tunnel forms in its midst. Given the way they came to Narnia, the blond isn't surprised. He has no time to be, anyways, as they must say goodbye to Luna and Caspian now.

It feels strange to hug them tightly, one by one, knowing it is the last time. Luna doesn't have words to describe the sorrow in her heart, she can barely form the goodbyes. However, she is not alone in that – they are all losing friends, family even.

» I'll miss you, « she tells Lucy, Edmund, and Eustace. The latter slings his arms around her middle, still suppressing his sobs with all might.

» You're the closest thing I have to family, « Cas says, eyes sweeping over them with a sad smile. He hugs Edmund. The Just King has become a brother and Caspian has no idea how he will get used to not having him around anymore, no sarcastic remarks, no advice from someone with similar experiences.

» Good thing you got Luna, « Ed comments with a half-hearted smirk. Cas glances at her, tickling Eustace before hugging him again. Indeed, she is a blessing in his life. As Edmund wiggles his eyebrows, he nudges him, feeling the heat rise at his neck. While Ed passes to Luna, Cas lifts Lucy off her feet. She laughs teary-eyed.

» I wish you all the best, « the Valiant Queen presses a kiss to his cheek as he sets her back down. He smiles, regretting that they won't witness what will become of this relationship.

Eustace doesn't say much as he lets go of Luna and Caspian, joining his cousins saying goodbye to Aslan. Then, they head towards the wave. Lucy slips her arm through her brother's but as she wants to take Eustace's hand, he isn't next to her. The boy turned around, gazing at the sea for a moment. He has never liked it but over the past months he grew fond of it. He fathoms that he would still be afraid to swim in deep waters. Now, he will always love the sound of the ocean and the smell, and the memories hold a dear place in his heart. He now understands why he smelled a fresh sea breeze as Lucy gave him that tincture as he was seasick during the first days on board.

» Will I ever come back? « He asks, surprised that his voice doesn't sound that croaky. The lion stands next to Caspian and Luna who are holding hands.

» Narnia may yet have need of you, « He replies. Eustace bows as his heart leaps at the thought of returning one day. The deep rumble of Alans's voice guides the Dragon Boy and his cousins through the wave, back home in their world – a mystery by the name of England.

~ END ACT I ~

Dear gentle reader,

I'm over the moon to announce ACT I is now completed! ACT II will follow shortly - with an extended cast etc. I'd love to read your opinion about this story so far - feedback is always welcome in any form (comment, private message, on my board...).

That's it for now, enjoy your weekend!

~ Lola