The Catalyst {Plot Thread! All Old Narnians welcome!}

• Storyline
• Rules
• Staff Roster
• Canon List
• Character Application
• Available Creatures

[Character of the Month]

Character of the Month
Sephen de la Braose

Read the Application
Played by Kai

"Sephen is an intriguing character, who out of prudence,  provides supplies for Miraz, but out of conviction and loyalty, also supplies the Old Narnians.  He has several interesting story lines, which together make him complex and lifelike."
Character of the Month Archive

<a href="http://intonarnia.com/index.php" target="_blank"><img src="http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y24/Jennifu/Images/Narnia/IntoNarniaAffiliateBadge.png"></a>

Need an easy way to keep track of your character's story?  Just post a Character Timeline!

[Prince Caspian]

{{ooc;; Takes place directly after This Thread.}}

Caspian paced anxiously, waiting for further word. Last he’d heard, a Narnian was deathly ill and the suspected cause of said illness was Telmarine “medicine”. There were so many things running through the young king’s mind as he thought this over. The same “medicine”, perhaps, that Drinian had tried to convince Caspian to take? Not that Caspian suspected his old friend of foul play, of course. But Miraz? Definitely. Maybe his judgement, which he rarely trusted, wasn’t so far off after all. But that didn’t change the fact that somehow, someone had gotten some of the Telmarine medicine into their possession. Had Drinian’s party given it willingly, or had one of his own people taken it? Who was at fault? Had Drinian’s party known the danger, or were they just as oblivious to it as Caspian and his followers? And what were the Old Narnians going to say, how were they going to react? Caspian wanted to shelter Drinian from this – he didn’t care much about the rest of them – but what could he do without throwing into question his own capability as a leader?

But maybe he was over-reacting. Maybe all of this would settle itself. Maybe it would end well. Maybe Drinian and his party had already fled. Not that Caspian wanted them to go, he wanted the comfort of his old friend here, but... he couldn’t guarantee anything if this resulted in the death of an Old Narnian.

“Sire?”

“Yes, what is it?” Caspian drew aside the flaps to the tent, feeling chilled at the grave look on the messenger’s face. “Any news then?”

“Yes, the noble Narnian has died,” was the grim response. “The best healers were brought but nothing could be done. This is certainly Telmarine doing.”

Caspian’s mouth grew dry and his thoughts scattered. This was not looking good. It would cause direct danger to the Telmarines currently in the camp but worse yet, it would have greater repercussions than that. They were lucky to have gone so long without actual warfare. They had been hoping so fervently for the promised help from Aslan or whomever he might sent. But it wasn’t looking like they were getting help – at least, not yet. This was going to cause fighting to start, this was going to be the catalyst, the thing that sent the whole thing over the edge. They’d gone as long as they possibly could with some semblance of “peace” but they all knew it wasn’t going to last. Shame this had to be the thing that ruined the quiet. 

He couldn’t risk letting anyone think his loyalty lay with Drinian and his men over that of the Narnians he fought for. He had to deal with this clearly, and with a level head. But that was going to be difficult.

“What would you have us do?”

“Make certain that our guests do not leave camp,” he said dully. He had to think, he had to figure out the best plan of action. “Bring together an assembly of Narnians. I will find someone to fetch the Telmarines.” He couldn’t deal with this in private, he would be under too much suspicion. He needed to have all of this in the open despite the fact that he would certainly rather not. “We will get to the bottom of this and put the situation to rights. At least, the best that it can be. A Narnian is dead and by what accounts I do not know. This is not something we will easily push aside.” He ran his fingers through his hair and waved the messenger on. “Hurry to it, I don’t think this can wait.”

[Reepicheep]

Reepicheep had been away most of the day, traveling to the very outskirts of the camp.  There was nothing in particular that he had been chasing after, nor anything from which he felt need to escape.  Only, his pride had been rather wounded by the fact that he had been excluded from the meeting between Caspian and that Telmarine - never mind the fact that all of the other old Narnians had been as well; Reepicheep liked to consider himself one of Caspian's closest friends and certainly his most ardent supporter.  He, after all, had been the one gathering weapons in Caspian's name, training his men in swordsmanship, and rallying many for his cause.  So, to sit in solitude and lick his wounds, he had gone a little out of the camp, but had ended up making a new enemy as well as a new friend.  Now returning, he found the camp in the midst of a quiet rush that disturbed him.  No one was speaking, other than in hushed voices, but everyone seemed in a great hurry to go somewhere.  His beady eyes narrowing (had he been left out of yet another one of Caspian's plans?) he dropped onto all fours to chase after a messenger.  He experienced the usual difficulty in trying to get the messenger's attention, but when he succeeded in doing so, he received his answer: Caspian was calling a meeting for all of the Old Narnians.  Though he knew not exactly why it was to be held, this meeting gave Reepicheep a petty, smug satisfaction that the prince seemed to be at least acknowledging the Old Narnians' presence once more.

And to the meeting he would go.  After thanking the messenger, he started off in the direction of Caspian's tent.  It seemed grander than most, though that was not likely to be the case, seeing as provisions were so scarce as it was.  There were no luxuries to be afforded for anyone, not even a prince.  That was one of the many things Reepicheep, and the other Old Narnians, liked about Caspian: he was a practical sort, never asking for anything in excess or thinking himself entitled to anything more than what the Narnians received.  Indeed, he was becoming a true Narnian, as humble of heart as the creatures who had pledged their loyalty to him.  Well, not all of them had pledged their loyalty to him, but those who had not done so could certainly not be called humble anyway - rather, they were arrogant and stupid, in the opinion of Reepicheep and many of his comrades.  Reepicheep did not really have anything against the Dwarfs, in general, but he did feel quite irritated by their refusal to follow Aslan; "irritated" being an understatement.  Yea, some of the more black-hearted beasts still seemed to be in want of the White Witch's presence.  It was frightening, even disgusting.  It was against everything that the other Narnians, and even Caspian it seemed now, stood for - which he supposed was the point, but even the often dull-witted Dwarfs Reepicheep would have expected to learn that nothing good happened in Aslan's absence, or even that of a human ruler, after thirteen hundred years. 

Perhaps that was what Caspian meant to speak to them about.  At the rate things were going, Reepicheep knew that they could ill afford the loss of any soldiers to dissent - so many already were paralyzed by illness or other things, and the Telmarines' numbers, though he hated to say it, were far greater than theirs.  Certainly, they had some advantage in the element of surprise - after all, not too long ago, the Old Narnians, according to the Telmarines, had been completely extinct.  It would make sense that Caspian would attempt to rally the Old Narnians to his cause, especially after he had spent the entire day talking to their enemy - something that indeed did not make sense.  Reepicheep hoped this would be an explanation for his actions.  Aslan knew he could use something to lift his spirits after the events of the day.  With any luck, they would be engaged in battle within the fortnight.  His little mouth smiled at the thought of it.  If Aslan was on their side - and surely he was - then they might be able to rout the Telmarines after all.  Then the Narnians would have their land back, and their lives as they had once been - though no one could even remember.  And Caspian would be crowned king.  Really, none of it mattered, what came after.  Reepicheep may be dead at the end of it all.  Though he dreamed always of sailing to the utter East, he would not deny himself the opportunity to give up his life for the cause of the Narnians, just as he had already given his life to the cause in spirit if not in blood.  His life belonged to Narnia, to Caspian, and to Aslan.  And if it was spared after he fulfilled his duty, only then would he follow his dreams.

It was a dream come true to be fighting for Narnia at all, really.  One day soon, he would be knighted, and then his life and his service to Narnia would be complete.  But for now, he would toil on without any tangible reward, because he knew a reward was coming, and the real reward came simply in the earning of it.  His head cleared, heart encouraged, and hope restored, he pushed through the flaps of the tent (rather heavy, they seemed to him, and a good deal larger than they needed to be - for certainly a Giant wasn't going to be in the tent...  was he?) with a renewed confidence in his swagger.  "My liege," he greeted Caspian with a sweeping bow at the prince's feet.  Looking up with bright eyes at the Telmarine-turned-Narnian who he so admired, he continued, "I am forever at your service.  For what matter did you inquire after our presence?"  He anciously awaited his orders, his tail twitching in anticipation.

[Prince Caspian]

Caspian turned at the sound of a light approach. He had become incredibly paranoid as of late; it used to be that people could be walking around outside his room at the castle and he did not care, nor did he notice. But now it took little to alert his attention. However, the visitor was no threat, but rather a joy, and Caspian couldn’t help but grin at the sight of Reepicheep standing there, eagerly looking up at him. Caspian reigned in his excitement at seeing the mouse – he was still unaccustomed to the idea of a mouse being so... large, so intelligent and so noble – and he gave the mouse a solemn bow in greeting.

“Dear, noble mouse, I am happy you are one of the first to arrive.” He was sure that leaving him out during the meeting with Drinian was sure to have injured the mouse’s pride. That was far from the intent – if Drinian had been just any Telmarine missive, Caspian would have spoken to him publicly. But it was because Caspian feared how he might react to the news Drin would present that he had taken it alone. It had proved worthwhile too; things were falling into place a little better than he’d hoped. But that didn’t change the fact that now he had amends to make; right now, he doubted many of the Narnians would understand why he did what he did.

“There is a grave matter before us,” Caspian said slowly. He wondered how much he would be wise to tell, then decided it was all going to come out anyway. It had to. That was why he was calling the Narnians. “One of ours has died while in the possession of a Telmarine vial. Foul play, poison, is suspected but not yet confirmed.” He didn’t understand why any of Drinian’s men – for surely it couldn’t have been Drinian himself, right? – would poison just any Old Narnian. One would think they would be strategic. Not to say that any loss was terrible but why wouldn’t they target Glenstorm, or Reepicheep, or Trufflehunter... one he called into council? Granted, it could be full well that they were just too bright to take anything from a Telmarine.

Caspian sighed. “I have an important task for you, Reepicheep. One that must be carried out swiftly, and with the greatest of responsibility. A task I trust to you, if you will take it.” He turned away, steadied himself, and turned back. “The Telmarines must be bought to me. They must be brought before the Narnians to account for this gross error.” He ran his fingers through his hair. “I will not pass judgement until I’ve heard everything, but it certainly doesn’t look good for them.”

[Reepicheep]

It had been sadly rare to see the prince smile as of late, so when Caspian did so at the sight of Reepicheep, a thrill of pride jolted the Mouse's heart to know that he was the one who brought such joy to his beloved leader.  He had been admittedly hurt, or rather his pride had been, by the earlier exclusion he had undergone (and nonetheless by Caspian's hand!), but now he seemed to be back in the prince's good graces.  ...Or perhaps he always had been.  After all, there must be a reason why he had not been invited to the meeting between Caspian and the Telmarine, and he supposed he would not have very much enjoyed sitting across a table from a Telmarine (though of course few knew better than he that war and honor were certainly not about enjoying oneself!).  Rather he would have been standing atop the table, which in all likelihood might have frightened the Telmarine, so that certainly would not have been fair.  Ah, yes.  That was it.  Good, kind Caspian!  His prince had only meant to be a fair host to their savage guests.  Though Reepicheep would have liked little more than scaring a Telmarine, he knew that the Telmarines were supposed to have come in peace, and any chivalrous knight would keep to their honor and act likewise.  The Mouse felt a surge of admiration, as he often did, for his leader. 

"As am I, my liege," he replied somberly, though inside he felt the greatest happiness and pleasure to be spoken of so highly.  It was only natural, he supposed, that someone should recognize him for his work, but that it would be by the prince...  That was truly something.  Perhaps he was more important than even he had realized!  It was enough to be called noble, but for Caspian, his comrade and hero, to call him dear?  Why, that was nearly too much!  Of course he deserved it, but still - an honorable knight never expected praise for their work; they did it only to maintain their honor, of course.  Was it possible that he was having a private meeting with Caspian now so that he might be praised?  It was too much to hope for!  But it was only the two of them, which was quite strange - private meetings were quite unusual, as the fuss generated by the one-on-one session with a Telmarine had demonstrated.  But it soon became clear that his more somber mood was the one that should remain, for, seeing how rare this meeting was, he knew something important had happened, most likely as a result of the Telmarine coming here.  In an unusual silence he continued to listen to Caspian.  Something serious indeed was happening, and he must find out what, as he was certain to soon.

Reepicheep stood erect and unmoving as he tried to process Caspian's words, trembling in righteous fury but unable to react for the moment.  After realizing that what the prince said was true, he burst out in the only way he could.  His tiny fingers clutched at the butt of his rapier as if to draw strength from it, and he repeated incredulously, "Back?  They killed one of our own, and you wish to allow them back to harm?"  Viciously, he shook his head, pacing in small, tight circles with his typical lack of patience.  "Begging your leave, my liege, do you not think it best to reduce any possible chance of further injury?"  His voice was pleading - Caspian trusted him and with good reason: he knew what he was doing, perhaps better than any other Old Narnian did, and thus he had the honor of being one of Caspian's closest advisors, if he could be called an advisor to the prince.  Their relationship was mutually beneficial, and he knew Caspian valued his opinion.  Just as Reepicheep very much valued Caspian's opinion (for, being a prince and their leader, it was practically taken as fact).  But if Caspian said no, he would go anyway.  Skillfully, he drew his rapier and flipped it into his hand with a flourish.  His face grim, he added pointedly, "And by that, I mean injury to our party."

Rapier in hand, he ceased his pacing.  Caspian knew what he was doing and had interacted with Telmarines more than Reepicheep.  If he had known enough to escape the Telmarines in the first place, then he clearly knew how to deal with them now.  Reepicheep knew that he had no place in telling Caspian what to do, nor ask to do something contrary to plan.  The fact that this task had been entrusted to him meant that he was trusted to do it and do it right, and undoubtedly it was a great honor to be bestowed upon him.  Perhaps if they were brought back they could be accordingly punished as Caspian promised.  Though Reepicheep would have much rather done it himself without the threat of more trouble, he was obliged to listen to Caspian and follow orders.  It was what every honorable knight did.  "I will leave you and do as you request," he said quietly, a strange afterthought.  "I thank you for your trust.  Your will shall be carried out accordingly."

[Arina Penley Carison]

Choni -ugh, how she was hating calling herself that over the last weeks- had kept the afternoon for herself. She had helped in the camp that morning and then just practiced with her bow and rode with Tyber as if they hadn't been in Narnia, volunteering in the war that they'd stumbled into. Anything was better than being at home, though. It was late when she finally went back to camp, giddy from just spending time riding and trying to leave her stress behind. She pat Tyber's neck as he slowed to a languid walking pace and she dismounted to walk next to him.

The mood of the camp almost immediately dispelled any form of happiness she'd been clinging to, but she refused to give it up that easily. There was always a certain mood hanging over the camp and it hadn't gotten any better with the Telmarines  there with them. Choni was determined to not be brought down. The camp could use a little uplifting morale. In fact, there should be someone appointed to do just that- keep morale up. Goodness knew they could use it. She was busying herself thinking up something that could build such a morale -a rally? a party?- when she heard the call for a meeting of the Old Narnians. Well. She may not be an Old Narnian, but she was a member of the camp. She supposed she'd have to go and see what Caspian was up to this time. Perhaps it had something to do with the extra weight that seemed to be adding to the already depressing atmosphere.

She lead Tyber to where the other horses grazed before making her way to the prince. Or king. He wasn't exactly the king yet, was he? He was just supposed to be. She arrived just in time to see the Mouse speaking to him before leaving to 'carry out his will.' She wanted to roll her eyes, but resisted the urge. There didn't seem to be anyone else there and the prince-king looked, for lack of a better word, distraught. Choni paused. She was used to him looking... cocky.

"You called for a meeting?" she began hesitantly. "Should I merely wait for others to join, Sire?" She might not be particularly fond of him, but she would pay him the respects and titles he deserved. That is, until he reached a point where he really made her mad.

[Swiftshadow]

“Swiftshadow! Nightwind!” An eagle swept in and landed on a branch in front of the two centaurs. 

“What!” Swiftshadow came to a halt, but pawed the ground impatiently.  Her husband, Nightwind, placed a calming hand on her equine back before she could say anything else, but it didn’t stop her from fixing the eagle with a fierce glare. She was so close to breaking free from the suffocating camp, for the first time in several weeks.  Glenstorm had released her for the rest of the day, so she knew she wasn’t needed for anything.  And she would have heard a ruckus if there’d been a Telmarine attack on the camp. So why was this bird keeping her from the gallop through the woods that she was so looking forward to?

The eagle ignored Swiftshadow – which didn’t help her mood – and addressed her husband.  “I was to help spread the word that King Caspian requests an assembly of Narnians without delay,” he reported. Swiftshadow and Nightwind exchanged glances at this, and thus saw that they were equally clueless as to what this meeting could be about. Before they could ask, however, the eagle was gone. “We’d better see what His Majesty wants,” said Nightwind. “Our outing will have to wait.”

“Yes,” said the centauress simply.  This rebellion always came before her own personal desires.  If they succeeded in defeating the Telmarines, she would be free to go for a gallop with her husband any time she pleased. Her pent up frustration did not dissipate, however, but simply receded for now, waiting to be let loose.

After a brisk trot, the two arrived at the assembly.  A large number of Narnians were there already, but they were at least not among the last. After a few minutes of joining in among the murmuring, Swiftshadow worked out that a Narnian had just died.  But why did that necessitate an assembly? A death was tragic, but with the sickness going around the camp, not quite unexpected. No one seemed to know much more for certain, however. There was plenty of speculation, but Swiftshadow would wait to see what parts of the rumors, if any, were true.

[Prince Caspian]

Caspian wished he could properly explain. He knew Reepicheep didn’t think his request all too wise, but it was. It had to be! Caspian knew Drinian would never intentionally harm anyone – and if he did kill, it would be only out of necessity and never by such sly, veiled means. But what of Drinian’s men? The young prince needed to figure this out, he needed to speak with Drinian, he needed to figure out exactly what had happened and where things had gone sour. Because the Narnians would demand justice. And while Drinian and his fellow Telmarines might have been safer if Caspian had just let them be, if he’d just told them to leave and never return, it wouldn’t solve the issue at hand. He did not wish Drinian to suffer for this but if one of his men were responsible... Caspian held no loyalty to any of them. “I know perhaps this does not seem like the best path,” Caspian said slowly, studying the noble mouse, “But it is a necessary one. Thank you; may Aslan bless your honour and loyalty.” He turned away as Reepicheep left.

Was he doing the right thing?

He was conflicted. He’d made his share of mistakes already, and he had prolonged this all so much. He had been waiting, hoping that help from Aslan might come. Perhaps they’d been wrong, perhaps the horn would only summon help for she whom it had been meant – the great Queen Susan herself. Perhaps blowing the horn did no good for them. Perhaps he had been too hasty in sounding it.

No matter, what was done was history. He could change none of it now. He needed to make the best of a bad situation and carry on the best he knew how. He was new to this – he’d gone from pampered prince to leader of a people that, up until a few weeks ago, he’d thought were nothing more than fairytale beings. It was something odd to wrap his head around. He didn’t know how to lead, he didn’t know how to rule. But, sad as it was, he was the best equipped for the role and, despite some argument, it was pretty well accepted that he was where he should be. But why did he feel so unsure of himself then?

He hated to show weakness, but no doubt he looked out of sorts. How long passed, he was not sure, but he grew impatient and pushed aside the flaps of his tent, peering around for any sign of Reepicheep and the Telmarines. Nothing. Creatures were starting to assemble and really, what was he to tell them now? What if the Telmarines had already fled? What if they’d caught wind that they’d been exposed – or had been accused? Ought Caspian send several after them, or would Reepicheep’s request be enough? Surely with Drinian in the lead, Reepicheep’s word, a missive from Caspian himself, would be respected. Or so he could only hope. There was a flickering doubt of Drinian’s loyalty but it was fleeting and quickly cast aside. He couldn’t think that way. He mustn’t.

"You called for a meeting? Should I merely wait for others to join, Sire?"

Caspian turned sharply, caught off guard by the voice behind him. He blinked, looked the young woman over, and tried to put a name to the face. Oh, he recognized her. She’d spoken her dissent before. But a name... it didn’t matter. Not now. He could figure that out later. “Yes, a meeting,” he replied distantly, glancing away. “I think the others are assembling even now.” He frowned. “And Reepicheep should have our guests back shortly.” He turned towards her again, shrugging. “I suppose I ought to begin, I think everyone is curious and, in all likelihood, a little concerned.” He nodded towards the gathering crowd and started to walk towards them, motioning for her to follow.

[Arina Penley Carison]

Choni followed the prince who would be king, unusually quiet. Something was afoot and all the camp was astir. She hated not knowing what it was, left in the dark without her faithful subjects from home to keep her informed of the ongoings of the world. Whatever it was, it had hung something sinister over them.

"Guests?" she couldn't help but ask. "The Telmarines?" Of course the Telmarines. Enemies in camp- if something had gone amiss, they would have the finger pointed at them first. She didn't like them here any more than anyone else and the Prince's apparent friendship with one made her more than a little wary of their reason for being here, but it could just as easily be a set up to make them look guilty. A reason to attack them. Her stomach twisted.

Joining the crowd, she stood near Swiftshadow. The two were not friends, but the centaur was the first familiar face she recognized. Turning her attentions to Caspian, she stood upright, back ramrod straight and hands held neatly in front of her. Sometimes she forgot that she was supposed to be masquerading as a farmer's daughter.

[Lord Drinian]

Following in the wake of the spirited Mouse, Drinian, brow furrowed and silent, approached a sizeable crowd gathered about the entrance of the How.

Unbidden, Drinian's stomach dropped and his hands, cold and clammy, trembled slightly. The Mouse had said someone had died. And they had done it. Did Caspian think the same? How could he? They would not have -- could not have. . .

Drinian had chosen Adelliana because he trusted her. Miraz had chosen Deverell because. . . Drinian's chest constricted. Could he have . . .? He joined them later . . . It was, perhaps, possible . . .

A woman -- the one who had been with the group in the forest -- seemed dubious they were "guests" here. This did not bode well.

Evening his breath as he approached, Drinian gave a slight bow to Caspian, not wishing to appear servile but hoping to show his compliance and respect for his friend. "I've been told you wished to speak with us," he said. The words sounded so canned and hollow.

[Kitsune]

Kitsune watched as the other Old Narnians assembled.  This was one of those times when she was unsure she had made the right decision.  The Old Narnians were letting humans into their camp.  She tried her best to hide her distrust, but it was quite difficult.  These humans would have to earn her trust, she thought.  She listened quietly, waiting for a good time to offer her input.

[Reepicheep]

Reepicheep, a bit breathless from the journey (which had been marched at the double, by his own insistence and the with the assistance of his rapier) and more so from trying to restrict his tongue, arrived with his despised charges into Aslan's How and presented himself with a magnificent bow before Caspian.  "I have returned, my liege," he announced, unneeded, as he rose, "with what you have requested."  The derision was not lost from his voice as he intentionally referred to the Telmarines without personalization.  He was angered that Drinian had spoken before him (obviously Reepicheep held more importance and thus should be speaking for both of them, despite what previous evidence seemed to show), and his mood was steadily worsening, with good reason.  The only slight reason he might find happiness was that Drinian had hesitated at the entrance.  Yes, you ought to be nervous, he thought with a smug smirk.  But his solemn facade returned instantaneously and he looked at his prince with an innocent face.

There were many creatures gathered around Caspian, many more than had been there when Reepicheep had spoken to him the first time.  Reepicheep had been the only one there, the first time, and while he was glad to see that the Narnians had all paid attention to heed the wishes of a leader they were still coming to accept, he was also simultaneously saddened by the loss of intimacy between himself and Caspian.  After all, though the first meeting, only a short while ago, had been unpleasant, at least he was able to speak to Caspian in confidence.  Now, while all the Narnians seemed rightfully informed of the bad news, there would likely be a stirring of panic which surely could not improve the situation.  He wanted to ensure that some attention would remain upon him, and that he would be given due credit for what he had done, horrid task that it was, so long that he received no blame.  Now he waited with bated breath, along with the rest of the company of Narnians, to see for just what purpose it was that Caspian had required that these wretched creatures be returned.

((ooc: short, sorry... didn't want to give you TOO much to reply xD))

[Kitsune]

Kitsune listened intently to Reepicheep and Caspian.  She couldn't believe Reepicheep.  Why was he so devoted to this human?  Didn't he know that the humans were the source of all the trouble in Narnia?  She didn't think it was wise to side with the humans, especially since the Telmarines had killed her parents.  She painted them all with the same stroke.  This Caspian would have to earn her trust and it wasnt going to be won easily.
She sighed to herself and shook her head.  She walked over to Reepicheep and whispered, "How can you trust this human?  Do you not know the trouble his kind have caused? I really think we are better off without them."

[Kalo Ashclaw]

OOC: Ah, time to join in the plot. And try out my new charry. Forgive me if this is a bit short. 

IC: Kalo circled the camp, his powerful wings beating a steady rhythm as he thought about the last time he had been here. It was only shortly after Caspian had joined them. The young gryphon had had mixed feelings over the entry of the young prince into their ranks, but when he left, things had already started looking better. Even as he flew overhead now, the ranks looked swelled by a slight amount. The Narnians looked a little disheveled and wary, though, as if they had been through a lot. Many things have happened since I was last here... he thought, his neck feathers ruffling involuntarily.

Kalo drew his wings closer and slowly spiraled down, extending his claws to land neatly on the ground next to the huge monolith of the Stone Table. As usual, few had noticed his entrance. His silvery-gray feathers blended nicely with the rocky surroundings, and he stayed on the edges of the Narnians. Even as he watched, a group of humans, Telmarines no less, wandered through the crowd as they followed a noble-looking mouse. Kalo glanced around, and his eyes came to rest on a young leopard eyeing the procession. The gryphon walked quietly forward until he was next to the cat.
 
The leopard visibly jumped in surprise when Kalo spoke, unaware that he had been so close. But in a few moments, the gryphon found out as much as he could about what had occurred over the last few weeks. The camp had been plagued by bad weather and sickness, had recovered, and a scouting party had brought back these Telmarines a few days ago; one of which appeared to be Caspian’s friend. Kalo murmured a swift thanks to the cat before racing away. He moved swiftly and fluidly through the other Narnians until he had reached the place of the meeting well ahead of the Telmarines. Caspian was already speaking to a few other creatures.

Kalo was uncertain what would happen. He did not know enough about these newcomers to pass judgment on whether they had poisoned the medicine on purpose, but the fact that a Narnian had died might persuade others to cast them as guilty immediately. Kalo was more thoughtful than that, and decided to wait and see. He took a place on the edge of the group, unnoticed by the rest of them as their discussion continued. The Telmarines, following the mouse from earlier, approached. Their leader had a look of nervous apprehension on his face, and the gryphon knew why. This meeting could decide any number of things. The Narnians might even decide to execute the group, though Kalo was uncertain if they’d go to that extreme. For now, he merely waited.

[Pattertwig]

Pattertwig ran in as quickly as he could.  He was out of breath.
"Prince Caspian, do you have anything you want me to do?" he panted.

[Kitsune]

Kitsune sighed.  She felt she had to let Prince Caspian know privately how she felt.  Perhaps that would help him realize that the animals needed him to see things from their point of view.

[Arina Penley Carison]

No matter which way this went, it would not end well. If Caspian found the Telmarines innocent, the Narnians would be furious and if he found them guilty, they might do something rash. Choni fidgeted where she stood, listening to the whispers ripple through the gathered creatures even as the Drinian fellow and the prince spoke. She didn't know what the Telmarines did or didn't do, but she felt that the best course of action would be to turn them away, send them from the camp immediately to placate the Narnians and prevent a bad situation from getting worse.

She almost felt bad for the 'guests' as Caspian would call them and looked at their leader with almost sympathy. When he had arrives, he did truly seem to be friends with Caspian, even if his companions may have had ulterior motives.

One voice she heard, coming from that of a Fox, kept whispering her dislike of humans in general, including the prince. She grit her teeth. She didn't much care for the Prince, but he did seem the only one capable of leading this army in some organized fashion. Had the animal merely not been here long enough to notice how much the prince was doing and what he was giving up to do it? Or maybe her sudden defensiveness over the boy and his leadership was that she, too, was human.

She gave a little huff. "Just like there are good and evil creatures, so are there good and evil humans," she said quietly, though loud enough that she hoped the Fox would hear.

[Kitsune]

Kitsune walked over to Arina.  She said as calmly as she could.  "You have no idea what I've been through.  My parents were murdered by humans.  And for what? Pure sport!  I'm only here because I feel that Aslan wants me here.  I know Caspian is not to blame for my parents' death.  But I still don't trust him.  He--and you--will have to earn my trust."

[Prince Caspian]

Caspian walked towards the gathering of the old Narnians, his head held high, his thoughts running rampant. He was aware of Choni walking away to join another, but there were so many faces now that he was having a hard time picking out any one over the other. That and he was feeling anxious about this whole thing. Was he making the right decision – having brought them back? He wanted everything to be settled but maybe he should have settled it in private. No, he decided, he couldn’t risk causing any more trouble in the camp. This was a full blown issue; if he tried to deal with it secretly, suspicion might fall on him. And if suspicion fell on him, then things would only get worse. He needed to deal with it in public and he needed to take Narnian opinion on it. He frowned as he fingered the vial that had been retrieved from the scene.

“Thank you for gathering,” he called, trying to quiet the talking group. “Thank you. There is a matter of the utmost importance that needs to be settled and it’s a matter that I think ought to be open to discussion. This is the easiest way to do that.” He looked around, pulling out the vial. He felt the weight of the world on his shoulders, he felt like the sixteen  year old boy-prince that he was, instead of the grown king that they wanted him to be. They had pretty heavy expectations on him; he wasn’t sure he could live up to them. In fact, he highly doubted that he’d be able to live up to them. But he had to try.

He slipped the vial back into his pocket when he saw Drinian and Reepicheep approach. The rest of Drinian’s party was following too. Caspian sighed. He hoped this didn’t go too poorly. He hadn’t  meant to risk Drinian’s safety but this was certainly a matter that had to e settled. Because much as Drinian didn’t like it, Caspian’s loyalty had to rest with these Narnians now. At least, for now. This was his army; he had to protect them. And apparently he’d done a bad job of it – if Telmarine poison could injure one of his own. What had he been thinking? He never should have let Miraz’s messengers into his camp. It was stupid. He should have sent them back the moment that they had arrived.

Caspian couldn’t smile, not even at the sight of Drinian. He sighed and nodded as his friend approached. He would have offered some sort of greeting, some sort of explanation but Reepicheep was no sooner there and announcing that he’d brought those whom Caspian had requested. Caspian gave Reepicheep a little bow and a tight, attempt at a smile. “Thank you, noble Reepicheep. You always serve well.” He would honour the good mouse greatly when all of this was over. But then, he would elevate Drinian too. If they all got out of this alright, that was. No, Caspian didn’t really think his friend had caused them any harm. His party, maybe. Actually, Caspian was almost sure of it.

He was approached by Pattertwig and he gave the squirrel a forced smile. “|Thank you, Pattertwig. Please, check the camp for me and make sure everyone’s here.” In all actuality, it was an unnecessary little quest but the squirrel seemed so eager to do something that Caspian didn’t have the heart to turn him down.

Then, he pulled the vial out of his pocket and let the crowd settle. “As you all know, one of our own has died. From whatever was in this vial.” He turned to Drinian, his expression expectant, his tone one of hurt betrayal. “I don’t suppose you know anything about this?”

[Lord Drinian]

There seemed no mirth -- no hope, even -- in the countenance of Caspian and Drinian was loath to continue his course, even stopping in his progress, perhaps further from the Prince than might have been required.

He couldn't do this. This wasn't a meeting. This was a trial. And Drinian and his men, the charged, knew not for what.

He said a silent prayer, to whom he did not know. He had not believed in Deity, but now, the thought that there must be a force higher than Man -- perfected, benevolent -- was welcoming.

“As you all know, one of our own has died. From whatever was in this vial.” He turned to Drinian, his expression expectant, his tone one of hurt betrayal. “I don’t suppose you know anything about this?”

And now Drinian knew. The colour drained from his face as he looked at the vial. "I am learning more about it as we speak, Prince Caspian," he addressed. "It is my own vial. Of medicine. Given to me by K--" yes, he needed to use the word, "King Miraz, as he gave me the one for you which we shattered; this one for my own use."

That he had not been a favourite of Miraz's, Drinian well knew. Suspected, even. Loathed. But to this degree. . . It had been difficult, but not unfathomable, for Drinian to understand that King Miraz would have wanted Caspian dead to the point of offering poison under the guise of good will. That Miraz would do the same to a man currently pledged to him. . . Without being certain of betrayal . . .

Though Miraz had been right in his suspicions. Drinian and now pledged himself to Caspian, breaking his oath with Miraz. It was not an honourable thing to do. Perhaps it deserved and warranted death. Drinian had at a time thought as much, but had decided even death preferable to serving a master he did not approve of.

And now, Drinian wondered if anyone knew, if anyone but Caspian knew him. And what he would die for. Drinian wondered, in the end, what it would be that he did die for, and whether it would be for the cause of his choosing. Drinian felt his courage waver, even before Deverell--no!. He was before his men. He must do this.

He stood straighter and moved forward until he had arrived before Prince Caspian, holding his hand out for the vial. He turned his head to the side so that Caspian and his people might all hear. "Would I had shattered it before now, but I declare that this morning when last in my sight it was in my tent with my things! It was taken, and unknowingly from me. I am sorry for the Narnian's death, but its blame is not upon us. It is upon he who gave the vial to me. And upon he who has taken it from my things."

[Reepicheep]

Reepicheep shot a glare of irritation at the bickering Fox and the Lady, wondering why it was that they seemed to believe themselves the authority of Caspian by talking during his important meeting.  They were so irksome.  Could they shut their mouths for one moment so that Caspian could speak?  He had not dragged these Telmarines here for nothing, after all, and there was little he wanted to hear more than what they had to say.  Other than, of course, what Caspian had to say to them.  The words of those two meant nothing to him, but the words of Caspian…  Well, they were a good deal dearer to him.  They seemed almost as holy and sacred as those of Aslan, which he had never heard, but which he imagined would be truly beautiful and miraculous to hear.  Caspian, similarly, was a sort of messenger, he supposed – perhaps even sent by Caspian to set up a pathway for the Lion’s return!  In the midst of all of these awful events, perhaps there was still hope.  Reepicheep had to believe it.

“Shut up!” he shouted indiscriminately, and at the same moment, the crowd suddenly fell silent.  Pleased with himself, he gave a little smile, and then looked again to Caspian.  The smile grew when his beloved prince took note of his services, and Reepicheep thought for a moment that he was about to die and go to Aslan’s country, he was so happy with the recognition.  Not even the mention of Pattertwig, with whom Reepicheep seemed to be forever in competition for the attentions of Caspian and the duties which he gave to honorable creatures, could bring down his spirits.  Or so he thought, anyway.  His mood soured nearly instantaneously when the Telmarines were brought forth to speak.  Even though a moment ago he had been looking forward to hearing what they had to say, it was only so that he could probably rebut whatever their argument was, and now that it had actually happened, he had to say, he was a bit disappointed.  At least if they had told the truth, he would have been able to shoot down their leader properly, but if he was going to lie, well, it would take a bit more work.  His tiny mouth frowned as he listened.

He stood unmoving beside the prince as the leader of the Telmarines approached, his beady eyes glaring up at the ones which were too high to stare back.  Unnoticed as he was, he still could gaze with great anger upon the Telmarine until the moment came for his wrath to be unleashed.  It had been far too long, especially since he had been waiting for said moment since even before the killing had happened.  But Reepicheep could not restrain himself to stand silent for long. “Lies!” he shouted, as soon as the Telmarine had finished speaking. “You say you had no hand in bringing the murder upon our people?  Was it not your party who brought this here, as you just made known to us?  And then you would blame a Narnian!  As if someone would kill themselves?!  Pah!”  Angrily, he spat at the foot of the Telmarine – the highest of insults for the lowest of creatures, he thought in grim satisfaction. “In my eyes, sir, you are no better than the dirt at our feet.  You, and the king you follow - all of you!”  For a long moment, he stood there, seething, before realizing his grievous error. 

Caspian, too, was one of these.

"My liege," he stammered, "I-I...  Forgive me," he finished sadly, bowing his head in shame and defeat.