[A] Entering the Wasteland {Plot - Part 3} [Finished]

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[Character of the Month]

Character of the Month
Prince Caspian

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Played by Cara

"Cara has managed to...create a character that is both mythical and life-like. Impulsive, moody, and yet kind and good-hearted, Caspian is just beginning to show the makings of a true leader."
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[Prince Caspian]

Caspian stood at the entrance of the cave filled with trepidation. The rain was slowing, dying and it was about time. They had been hiding away inside the caves for? what, four days, five days? A week? He had lost count ? though he didn?t doubt someone knew. Still, even if they had only been holed away for a day, that was still a day far too long. All this time hiding from the rain had been a rather big waste. Caspian hadn?t been able to do much battle planning, nor had he been able to meet with anyone to discuss matters. Everyone seemed to be falling ill ? some seriously, and some not so much. Nevertheless, it had been a strain on everyone and no one had been in the mood to discuss upcoming battles, Caspian included.

It was almost time to journey back out into the open area around How; almost time to leave the cave. In fact, Caspian had already ordered everyone to start getting things together, ordered them to get ready to leave. The moment the rain stopped, they would be outside. He wasn?t concerned about it starting again any time soon ? he was surprised it had even managed to last as long as it had.

They needed to get outside. They needed the fresh air, and the space to set everything up again. They needed to get on with it ? they couldn?t win a war from inside a series of tunnels and caves. He stood there staring blankly out at the falling rain, a troubled sigh escaping him.

Had he done the Old Narnians wrong by not waiting for Aslan? By not waiting for help? Would they fail now, because of his impatience? Shaking the thoughts off, he knew he had to stop doubting himself, stop doubting their mission. This was what the great Lion Aslan would want; he would want his people restored to peace and safety? restored to their rightful ownership of Narnia. Granted, the doubts were lessening. It was only in those spare moments when he was all on his own that they came creeping back to haunt him. But he would conquer them; at least, he hoped so.

It was not a sudden noise that startled him from his thoughts; rather it was the lack of noise. Lack of rain falling and hitting the ground. He glanced up and looked outside, peering around for the sight of rain, the sight of little droplets hitting the massive puddles gathered on the ground. But there was nothing. The rain had stopped! Thank Aslan, the rain had stopped!

?The rain is done!? He shouted, the boyishness within him that had been long hidden away breaking free for a moment as he bolted from the entrance of the cave and ran farther in. ?The rain has stopped! Tell everyone! It?s time to get back outside and win this war!?

Everyone around him looked up, amused by the exuberance of the recently weary Prince. Still, as his news began to sink in, creatures all around him rose to their feet and followed him. Even the most ill among them wanted to get out into the air and survey the damage that the storm had done.

Chaos erupted as everyone jumped to their feet and followed Caspian to the entrance of the cave. It was such a lovely sight, to look out without the rain getting in the way. Caspian hurried from the cave and down towards the camp? and stopped short.

Eyes wide as he stared at the mess, he drew in a sharp breath. This was going to be a major setback. A major setback. Everything that they had been unable to bring with them was either gone, or so badly mangled that it was beyond repair. There was water positively everywhere ? the trenches that had been dug were now deep pools of the frigid stuff. They would have to start over.

Caspian turned back to survey his tired, sickened army and brought a hand to the back of his head. He only hoped that Miraz?s army suffered as badly as his. He coughed then, which took him very much off guard. It was a painful, wrenching cough that, while ending quickly, was a rather bad sign of things to come, he feared. Nevertheless, he nodded to some of the more able-bodied Narnians to start bringing out supplies. They needed to set everything up soon, so they could get back to work.

[Senzi Naffis]

Senzi, who had been lounging in a secluded little corner, raised his head at Caspian?s cheerful yelling. ?Was it really necessary to yell?? Senzi thought, getting up. He was hoping to get some sleep today. He had been out almost all day the previous day. Despite his dislike of running, Senzi wished to be out of the cramped little cavern. He bounded past all the other creatures making their way out of the How and darted out into the open. He had a surprising amount of energy today. It was probably from being stationary for so long. He stopped and looked down in disgust at his muddy paws and then dismissed it. It was just mud.

He padded over to Caspian, the squishing of the mud beneath his paws giving away his approach. ?It seems we have work to do, my lord,? he said as he got closer. Viewing the destroyed camp, Senzi made to sit down, then decided against it. Muddy paws were enough for him. ?It wouldn?t hurt to do a bit more work anyway, right? Some of these fellows could use it,? he chuckled. It was true. Though some had caught some sort of sickness, there were still some, such as Senzi himself, who were eager to do something.

Senzi made his way down to what remained of  the camp and began to examine everything and looking for things that weren?t ruined. He saw no reason to just stand and stare at the mess. ?Standing there looking at the camp won?t do anything about it,? he called back to Caspian cheerfully. He disappeared into a pile of junk and rummaged around. He came out on the other side and continued this, finding little that could be saved.

?It?s really not as bad as it looks,? Senzi said to no one in particular as he made his way back to the How. He climbed on top of a large rock and sat down, tail neatly placed around his paws as usual.  He looked about him, waiting for someone to call on him for help. There were still creatures of all sorts making their way out of the How. It saddened Senzi to see so many ill. It may have been selfish of him, but the leopard was glad he had not caught the illness.

He looked up to the sky and gazed at the retreating clouds. He was glad the rain had stopped. Everyone seemed to be moody during rain storms. Senzi always kept to himself during such times. He did not like to argue with people who wouldn?t stop. He let out a yawn as he watched the goings-on around him.

[Arina Penley Carison]

Choni couldn't believe it when the news spread through the tunnels like wildfire. The storm was over? Truly? She had rode through most of it -and probably should have continued on in it. The forest had been shelter enough, and much more hospitable.

Reguardless, she picked herself up and grabbed the reins of her horse, gently pulling on them to urge him outside. "Come now, Tyber, the breeze and fresh air will take the musty smell your coat has aquired."

She winced as she realized that she would have to help out. She didn't have any servants here whom she could order to rebuild for her or air out her drenched things, still rolled up in the pack Tyber carried for her. Patting his mane, they left the tunnels and breathed deeply the sweet air that follows a storm.

Her head felt like it was swimming in a thick liquid, trying to pull her to the surface. She grimaced, sincerely hoping the rain wasn't catching up to her.

Letting go of Tyber's reins, he trotted off to graze through the newly grown grass, full, thick, and tall. He was happy enough.

Choni spotted Caspian and stalked over to him, not concerned that Tyber might slip away. She knew he wouldn't. Her cheeks were flushed from her light-headedness, but she ignored it, more fueled by wanting to let the boy who she unwillingly had to follow, now, that their previous conversation was not finished.

She heard his cough and grinned. "Catching ill, are we?" she asked, approaching him from behind. "Perhaps that will teach you not to accuse a lady of being associated with your inept uncle."

Choni folded her arms across her chest. "Tell me, how do you intend to plan battles, rebuild your encampment, face Miraz; lead this army if you let yourself fall prey to illness?"

[lovelovelove2]

?The rain has stopped! Tell everyone! It?s time to get back outside and win this war!? Hearing the shouts of Prince Caspian, the girl rose from sitting position near Dar. Wondering if his words were true, Roani ran to the mouth of the main cave. With a whoop of joy she whistled to the gelding and ran outside.

Snorting, the male equine followed his mistress. Roani turned and smiled to her companion. "No more rain Dar! We can fight efficiently now!" Patting the horse, Roani hugged his neck and sighed.

She wondered where Richard was and if he was okay. "We will meet again." the huntress whispered fiercely. She was going to say something else when the wrenching cough of their Prince broke her voice. Turning swiftly Roani walked to where the boy was standing. "Highness?! Are you alright?"

"Catching ill, are we? Perhaps that will teach you not to accuse a lady of being associated with your inept uncle. Tell me, how do you intend to plan battles, rebuild your encampment, face Miraz; lead this army if you let yourself fall prey to illness?"

With burning eyes and a furious look on her face, Roani rounded on the girl. "How dare you? Who are you to question his Highness?!" Placing her hands on her hips, the girl faced the rude little slip. The huntress' face was turning red with fury. "Hasn't he been through enough without you talking down to him and questioning his actions or abilities?!"

[Nikki!]

Elba felt the sting of fresh air on her face and smiled slightly. Her chest still rattled enough to worry her and she knew the still damp air wouldn't help. But she didn't mind any more, it was finally time to leave the damp confines of the cave and see the sun again. Slowly she gathered her things. Her broad sword and her shield were wrapped in a long canvas peice and they felt very heavy in her hands as she neared the cave entrance. There were many weak and ill that wobbled out of the How, their faces filled with hope. As she walked she helped as many as she could, stedying a Horse with a wounded leg, carrying an old owl on her shoulder and holding onto the small paw of a beaver as they stumbled out of the dank and the dark.

Finally, as the sun shone on her, she began to recount her duties. Her first was to find her men, who had been scattered about the caves. Most of them were healthy, only a few had even suffered remotely. She looked about, pulling her cloak about her and stepping forward, her pale face a bit worried. Then, as if summoned by her thought, Lucien appearned. Lucien Darmon was the real power behind the Archenland force. There were only about twenty ground troops but Darmon had made them as useful as an entire battalion. She smiled gracefully at him.

"Lucien." she said as the Old Narnians continued their trek "Are you well? The men, have they-"

He nodded, as if he already knew her concerns.

"Milady we Archenlanders are made of more wiry stuff. We await your orders." he smiled slightly then "And they inquire about your healty Lady Oimms."

She stood up straight, as if to reinstate her strength. She'd had enough rest in the caves. For a moment she felt her will weaken but then smiled again, the sun was doing wonders on her mood. She looked to the West where her men carried canvas and supplies needed to start rebulding the camps for the Narnians.

"Tell them they are doing enough to recieve medals of honor twnety times over. And be sure they take care of themselves, you too Sir Lucien."

He gave a stiff nod and returned to the men, giving them the news. Each one seemed relieved. What this army needed was rest and health, but they had no time. Miraz would take just as much advantage of the storm as the Narnian's would. At the thought of Miraz Elba remembered Adimon and hoped that Sir Cross would have an easy enough time with him. They hadn't been able to finish their conversation but he'd seemed docile enough. She would have to finish explaining to him soon...

But before she could even get her thoughts around the Telmarian she heard a familiar voice rising among the ranks. Elba turned, her eyes narrowing in on the fray. Roani seemed to be the source of the noise and beside her Caspian and the woman who called herself Choni (though Elba had a pretty good idea what her real name was) stood. Elba stepped forward and Roani's words reached her.

"How dare you? Who are you to question his Highness?!" Placing her hands on her hips, the girl faced the rude little slip. The huntress' face was turning red with fury. "Hasn't he been through enough without you talking down to him and questioning his actions or abilities?!"

Elba finally made it to where the group was settled and put a gentle hand on her friend's shoulder. She knew that the worry over Richard would put strain on the young woman and felt for her. But this was the last thing they needed.

"Come now Roani." she said with a weak smile "We are out! We're free! Why not enjoy the sunlight? This is no way to celebrate now is it?"

Then she coughed, the sound racking her body. It was small but it was enought o shake her. She cursed under her breath and took a drink from her flask. The thick syrupy liquid helped, but burned on the way down. Then she offered it to Caspian.

"Here your Highness. It will help some."

[Senzi Naffis]

Senzi could not help laughing out loud at the humans before him. They were always trying to bring each other down, mocking each other and separating themselves.  How Senzi wished that humans had never came into Narnia. ?Now now, children,? he said as he leapt off his rock, ?there is no need to bicker among yourselves so. We must stay unified, must we not? Always be a little kinder than necessary, yes?? The humans were indeed acting as children. For Senzi to step into an argument such as this was rare, but he felt that he needed to do so under such dismal circumstances and try to make peace.

A worried look flashed over the cat?s face briefly as two of the humans moved to Caspian?s aid. ?Just give it some time, Majesty. It will go away on it?s own,? he said before quickly adding, ?but of course, your medicines should help it along as well.? He did not wish to offend the woman who had offered medicine to the Prince. It would probably only cause more useless fighting.

Senzi looked at each of the women in turn. The blonde lady had a sour look about her. The leopard guessed that she did not make friends very well, which was why the group had started the scene. "Perhaps that will teach you not to accuse a lady of being associated with your inept uncle,? she had said. ?You should not underestimate the opposition, my lady,? Senzi said quietly, ?though he is hated among us, he is hardly inept.?

?So, my lord,? the cat said, trying to change the subject and avoid more bickering, ?Have you any plans for the reconstruction of the camp? We must make all haste before Miraz learns of this little? unfortunate event. There is no doubt in my mind that the so-called 'king' will attack as soon as he can if he learns of his enemy?s setback.? He scratched at his ear as a fly landed on it.

Finding a little grassy spot not covered in mud, Senzi sat down near the group. ?You must have been warned against letting the golden hours slip by,? he said to Caspian. The leopard licked his paw clean of the mud that had dried on it. He quickly put it down and tried to get the horrible taste out of his mouth.

*?Always be a little kinder than necessary? and ?golden hours? quotes both go to J.M. Barrie.*

[Arina Penley Carison]

Choni was really beginning to dislike this Roani, she believed her name was. She wouldn't even be in such a distainful disposition if it weren't for her and her little knight. She set her mouth in a hard line as she looked at the woman.

"For one, I'm technically talking up to him since he's taller than me." Choni knew perfectly well that wasn't what Roani meant, but she also liked to be particularly difficult with people she didn't like. "For two, I think I have as much right as anyone else. They are valid questions and if I'm to be staying here and helping, I want to know how he's going to support this army when he can't even take care of his own health! He is the king, or will be soon anyway, so he should be aware of the concerns of his encampment, should he not? As I am now a member of this little settling, I'm making my concerns known about his Highness' fitness to lead when he's fallen ill."

When Lady Elba joined the little group forming, Choni inclined her head and curtsied slightly in respect. She had nothing but respect for Lady Elba, which was more than she could say for Roani.

She glanced down when the Beast spoke to her and she stood speechless for a moment, marvelling at his beauty. Choni was still a little more than star struck that all the creatures from legend were real live breathing things, not just stories. After her moment of amazement passed, she also inclined her head to him.

"He may not literally be inept, but I'll not stand here and give Miraz praise he does not deserve," she explained. "Besides, the statement is not far off. In all my visits, I came to the conclusion that he is a bumbling fool who is easily influenced by his wife, Prunaprismia, and his Lords, Glozelle and someone else, I can't remember his name. He's a puppet and the three of them take turns pulling the strings."

She sighed and glanced around at the washed out wreckage. What would Karth do in such a situation? She rolled her eyes at the thought. Karth would do the same thing she would- order someone else to fix it. What would her servants do?

"Hmm... We need new... wood. But... If the legends are true, then we'll scarcely be able to find any usable wood that isn't home to a nymph..." She was mumbling to herself now, trying to figure out how she had survived so long without knowing these things and why she hadn't paid more attention to the work of her servants. Her face formed a pout as she tried to prove to herself that she knew something about survival and building, which of course, she didn't.

[Prince Caspian]

Quite unfortunately, it seemed as though his little coughing fit had caused quite a stir. The one who called herself Choni seemed to enjoy the opportunity this presented to call more doubt upon his ability to lead this army. She also seemed quite insulted that he had supposed she was nobility from Miraz?s court. He rolled his eyes and did his best to ignore her, though he could feel illness swiftly coming for him.

Roani was by his side in mere moments, defending him and saying that he had already been through enough. She was an amusing little one, indeed, though Caspian would not say so aloud in fear he?d harm her pride. His first encounter with her, and the characteristics that he saw in her now, were enough to tell him he didn?t want the girl on anyone?s side by his own. She and Richard would certainly make an interesting pair ? for everyone had noticed their growing closeness.

?Thank you Roani, I think?? He trailed off, sighing slightly as even more gathered. He saw the Lady Elba ? a wondrous woman in his regard ? try to calm Roani before sipping from a flask. She then offered some to Caspian, who hesitated. There was an inward struggle as he wondered what might be better; to not take any, attempt to look stronger than he really was and likely end up growing ill faster? or take some, show some weakness but let everyone around him know that he was willing to do something about it, regardless. He didn?t think long as he took the pro-offered flask and sipped from it. It burned his throat as it slid down, but Caspian could feel a little bit of a difference already.

?My thanks, milady,? he said, bowing slightly to the healer. He turned to Choani then, his face hardly a picture of pleasure.

?My apologies, once more,? he said, his voice tinged with sarcasm once more, ?oh wondrous lady who both will not reveal her true identity, nor where she really hails from. At this present moment, I have little care for your words, or your actions and if you leave my camp, then good riddance; there is more than enough drama here and I daresay you won?t hesitate to stir up more yet.?

The leopard, too, was there and he told them all that there was really no gain in arguing. The cool, calm tone of his voice was a little frustrating to Caspian, though he did not let it show upon his face. ?Yes, I realize we must re-build. The only matter his how. I suppose the best route would be first to clear the camp of debris ? all the wood and whatever else the might be able to be reused ought to be put to the side for later evaluation... He paused and took a deep, shaky breath. "Once everything is cleared, what we still have should be put up and we can go from there. But it must be done quickly ? Miraz likely weathered this storm far better than we and his army will be attempting to force us to fight before we?re ready.?

[kat]

It was so dark and humid in the caves that morning. That rain had really made the air almost unbearable to be in. She hated how muggy it was, and how miserable some people looked. She had awoken early, making sure that there were no troops near. She climbed up the ledge of the caves, and saw the clear area. She assumed that was all she would see, but she didn't want to rely purely on assumptions. She sighed as she climbed down, knowing the worst was yet to some upon them. She dreaded it, but she had the heart of a stone for battle. She was ready, and she was willing to fight for Narnia and her people.

She came back in from the rain, and waited for an hour or so. She didn't quite know how fast time was moving here. She was just ready to get out of here. She needed some fresh air. It was just too stale in the cave.. She looked around as a few creatures were waking, and getting their things ready. She too prepared her sash, as well as her sword. She sharpened it as she waited for any word on what they planned on doing. She looked around as she sharpened, until hearing the words of the prince. It was time to get out.. Thank heavens! She slid her sword back in its sheath, and stood. She walked through the group, looking around as the walked out. So many willing to stand for there people... It was a great push for her to really be ready for what all was to come...

She walked out, and stretched, "Pure air at last.." She said, in a pure angelic voice. "Oh sweet freedom by name of nature." She said, glad she was finally out of the caves. She walked around the crowds as she heard the voice of the one everyone seemed to call Choni. Or so she had called herself.  She had heard a quarrel with her before in the cave, and the peace needed settle once and for all. Indeed, the last thing people needed was tension that was already high due to Miraz. Drama seemed to follow everywhere this woman went, but it was not the appropriate time for Nirvelli to say anything.

She looked to the prince as he spoke about the matters of what they should do. She wasn't there to lead, but to help. He seemed to have a fairly good idea of what they were to do. She wasn't sure what to say, so she felt it was best she let the prince do what he was to do. She looked around at the drenched ground. She looked at the wood, getting a good idea from it. She would let them group as she began to work. She put her hand at the wood, her necklace having the light glow as the water was pulled from the logs. She repeatedly did this process, only taking moments. A few centaurs helped her stack the heavier logs she couldn't life herself. "Thanks." She said in her soft voice, and they nodded helping. The debris needed moved and they needed to salvage what they could. She and the two centaurs obviously couldn't do this all alone.. "Could anyone lend a hand?" She shouted out.

[lovelovelove2]

?Thank you Roani, I think?? The fierce huntress smirked on the inside. Their Prince wasn't entirely sure he should thank her, but nonetheless Roani would give her assitance to him and any Narnian that needed it. Whether her help was wanted or not. It was one of her qualities some found a boon, others found it annoying.

Turning, the girl patted Elba's arm. "Thank you friend. I assure you, I am calm now." With a bright smile she faced the opposing woman. "Don't you think his highness is well aware of the concerns of this encampment?! I should think so, for he has been more than happy to deal with them thus far. And why do you think his fitness would affect his leading abilities? I don't think our Prince would back down just because of a little cold!"

With fire in her grey eyes, Roani stood still and glared at this so-called Choni. Who was she to question Caspian's judgement and leadership? And if this woman thought just because she could make some snide comments and brush her ignorant way into the camp, well Roani wouldn't back down from a challenge. She never would, that wasn't how she functioned.

All this fighting made her think of Richard and when he saved her from the Telmarines. Oh how she wished he was here right now. The knight wouldn't let this rude female question their Prince or his people. A low fire burned in her gut, she longed for Richard's company and reassuring words.

[Arina Penley Carison]

Choni glared at the Prince. "My real name is Choni and I hail from Archenland. I was never asked where I came from and therefore, never lied about it. I'm a farmer's daughter and I left home because I didn't want to marry. No one here thought to ask me anything but my name and all were quick to assume I came from Miraz. I had been riding for several days. The last news I recieved was that the Queen had a child and you disappeared." The lie slipped easily off her tongue and she almost believed it herself.

"I am not a difficult person to get along with, but false accusations and concerns will make me an easily adgitated person and I suppose you'll just have to put up with it because I don't have else where to go."

Choni turned her attentions, rounding on Roani. "One cannot be aware of someone else's concerns unless they are conveyed through a form of communication, in this case, the communication is verbal. Caspian's fitness does effect his leading capabilities. He can't very well lead an army and effectively plan from battle if he's bed ridden which is why-" She turned back to the Prince. "-I suggest you listen to Lady Elba. Take her medicines because I assume you'd rather have your men see you taking care of yourself than waiting for it to get worse."

She felt as if the earth beneath her were shifting below her feet, trying to throw her off balance. She set her feet a shoulder's width apart to assure herself that she wouldn't topple over. She swallowed hard.

"Some of the... healthier men should search for materials... salvage what can be from the old camp. Training needs to continue as soon as possible. Warriors get sluggish when they haven't practiced in a while." She only knew this because of her observations of Karth. He had once fallen ill and couldn't train for two weeks. He could hardly defeat a blade of grass, much less a trainer.

Choni closed her eyes for a moment, telling herself that she was fine. And even if she wasn't, it wasn't anything bad, she could feel it. "I think I'll go find someone to help," she murmured. It was a poor excuse, but she wouldn't have herself looking ill in front of this lot. Especially the prince and this Roani.

She turned and started towards the ruined campsite where others were already pulling things apart to see what they could use. She trained her eyes on the grass below her and walked slowly with deliberate footsteps meant to keep her from falling over.

After a moment, the dizziness passed and she walked with her head held high. She was fine. She thought.

[Senzi Naffis]

"Would you please be quiet," Senzi snapped at Choni, "I think everyone has heard quiet enough of your chatter. If you keep going on like that you'll start attracting the squirrels!" Regaining his cool, the cat looked toward the Prince. "Maybe you should dispatch some scouts, Highness," Senzi said to him, "best make sure. Who knows? Maybe they were all washed away!" He laughed heartily at his own little joke as he made his way back down to the camp to help.

"Hello," the leopard said cheerfully as he approached a dark-haired lady, "may I help with anything? That is if you could use a paw instead of a hand." He chuckled at the little joke. He was very happy today despite his being deprived of sleep. Thinking back on his words, Senzi doubted very much that the Telmarine army had been washed away. He was just trying to brighten everyone's moods. Rain storms always brought out the worst in people.

He examined the remains of the camp around him. As far as he knew, all the food had been moved inside. Though there were some rather thick people around the How, none of them were that dense. He turned his attention back to the darked-haired lady and waited for instructions.

[animeangelfish]

Ignoring the other inhabitants of the cave was easily done once Reina set her mind to it. Every little thing in the soil, or falling from the sky outside their cave sang to her. Sure, she could have very easily escaped once the storm started, but she preferred to continue in her little escapade and had stuck close to the walls and away from anyone who might question her or try and engage in conversation. Her intention had been to find out what the group of Narnians were doing bulked together but she?d found herself ushered into the cave alongside the rest as the storm had began.

It was pure childish glee that kept her going when most had fallen ill or were stir crazy. All these Narnians in one place! It was simply astounding! So, by the third hour she?d found herself playing in the water next to a centaur and a few other creatures that were curled up with their limbs awkwardly folded under themselves. She?d assured them, with cheeks stained a pleasant pink color, that she was far from sick despite her odd behavior. It wasn?t her fault that the rain was so exhilarating. Blame her genetics.

Though slightly more subdued then before, Reina bounced out of her spot into the fresh air with her arms spread wide. Instead of stopping to examine the damage, as she had little to no knowledge of how their camp had been previously, she darted forward to the filled trenches. Folding her feet underneath herself she reached out and giggled as she skimmed the top of the water with her palm. The fallen rain certainly didn?t speak to her far as much as the standing water, but if left unattended to it would be singing to her as loudly as the rivers of Narnia.

?Hi, what?s your name?? Ringlets of auburn hair fell across the pale girl?s forehead as she craned her neck down and listened to the whispers.

[Prince Caspian]

He was glad for Roani’s loyalty, and Richard’s too… and for the devout loyalty of most everyone in the camp. But there were those few who just made him want to turn around and crawl up under some silken sheets and turn everything back to the way that they had been – his ignorance had been, for a time, bliss indeed. Lirain, and this “Choni” – a girl he was quite certain was lying about a good many things.

She told him, looking rather angry though he wasn’t sure whether it was genuine anger, or perhaps just a cover, that she was from Archenland and that she was the daughter of a farmer. ”You,” he muttered, ”Are no child of a lowly farmer. No farmer’s child would speak to me in such away. Granted, few royals would either. However, your mannerisms suggest you can be nothing but the daughter of a Lord. If not a Lord of Miraz’s, then perhaps one from Calormene or Archenland. T’is a pity I don’t recall from where.”

Caspian tuned her out, turning away as she began to explain how his health did influence his ability to lead. He saw how she faced him, heard how she told him he’d be best to take Elba’s medicines and not wait for his illness to get worse. “I had every intention of doing just that,” he said coolly then, scowling at her. ”Now if you’re quite done?”

He hid a laugh as the leopard, called Senzi, snapped at Choni then, telling her to be quiet. Caspian quite agreed, he was certainly done with her chatter! The girl stalked off and he smiled to himself, choking back a cough, which he managed to cover up as though he was merely clearing his throat.

From the looks of it, the group was clearing up in order to get back to work. There was much that needed to be done, though a good many others seemed to know more than he what they ought to be doing. He looked around, putting a hand to his forehead as he found himself quickly getting lost in his thoughts. Caspian knew he shouldn’t worry – Aslan would provide, somehow and someway. After all, they were fighting his war, for his people.

Wandering down in the direction of the camp, Caspian decided to make himself useful. He’d help get the tents up, perhaps, though he would definitely have to get back to strategic planning soon. He had a lot to plan and not too much time to do it – who knows how Miraz weathered the storm?

And most of all, he wanted some sleep. Maybe just a quick nap, he thought, blinking back the fatigue in the hopes he could at least accomplish something useful first. He coughed again, his throat burning as he did.

[Arina Penley Carison]

When Choni reached the old campsite, she began gathering the old canvas' together. She decided that the bigger ones could be sewn together or patched up to be used for new tents. They were all pretty ratty, but she would use her own clothes to repair them if need be. They usually used at least ten yards of fabric than weren't needed. But she did so love her clothes...

She whistled and Tyber trotted over. She pulled down her pack and searched for a needle and thread. She knew she packed them somewhere.

Her mind would not leave what Caspian had said to her. She wasn't do a very good job, acting like a farmer's daughter and she knew there were already those who knew her real name, but she had to stick to her story. She would not go back. She wouldn't allow it.

She wiped her eyes dry when she realized that their watering was the reason her vision kept getting blurry. Choni scoffed at herself and hung her head. Bear the weather, argue with the true King, but cry over a stupid arranged marriage. I have the right, she thought stubbornly to herself.

If Choni got married, it would be because she was in love, though she also didn't see that happening, so she would be happy to grow up to be an old spinster, living alone with no fat Baron for a husband. She cringed as his face filled her mind. It would work itself out. He didn't like her anyway. Something about intelligent women not knowing their place...

She was surprised to find herself holding the needle and sack of thread she had been looking for. Choni set them on top of everything else to spread out the largest canvas she had discovered and pick out smaller ones to cover the holes. It took her longer than she wanted. Everytime she stood, she became light-headed and had to wait for it to stop.

When it was finally finished, she was able to sit and sew. She cried out every two or three stitches when she poked herself in the finger. She had never really sewn before. There was always someone else to do it for her. After a little while, she got better and her cries came only once every six or seven stitches and then every twelve or thirteen stitches. Soon, she didn't cry out at all- she just groaned and put her finger in her mouth to wait for it to stop bleeding.

[Cillian Ada]

Cillian had been watching the scene with the Prince, the women, and the leopard from afar. He was quivering from excitement. What was he excited about? Truthfully, he had no idea. His ears pricked up as the leopard mentioned sending a scout to the Telmarine camp. 'This would make me useful!' the fox thought. Now he knew what he was excited about. He was to small to take part in the physical fighting, but he would be a wonderful scout! Or so he thought.

He bounded toward the Prince and quickly ran a couple of circles around the group. With one big breath, he began, "I shall make a wonderful scout, your highness! I will sneak over to the Telmarine camp and find out what they are doing. I shall run circles around them and confuse them! I will have them up all night! They will never catch me, though. They are too fat and slow." Gasping for air, the fox sat down, tail swinging back and forth in anticipation.

Cillian did love confusing the Telmarines. One minute, he would be behind a bush talking to them, the next he would be behind a far off rock, doing the same thing. The possiblity of doing what he loved for the good of his fellow Narnians got the fox's energy way up. "How about it, your majesty? Will it be useful? I'm so excited," he said as he started rambling again, "Telmarines are so witless! They know nothing of the forest as I do. I will lead them into the forest and around in circles and they will become lost! If I do that long enough, a rather large number of Telmarine soliders will be lost to Miraz. Brilliant!"

Unable to contain himself, Cillian got up and started pacing before Caspian, watching him intently. The fox was incrediblely hyper today. The thought of finally being useful just increased the feeling. How would he be rewarded if he lured Miraz himself into the woods and made him confused? A place in court? Medals of honor? All the food he could eat? The possibilites were endless. At least in his mind.

[Damien Arrowing]

A breeze riffled through the young gryphon's feathers. It sent a chill down his spine. Damien, a 110-year-old half-eagle/half-lion (though only the equivalent of 22 for a human), was searching, searching for allies. Damien had begun his search a few months ago, setting off from the island he and a fair number of his kind called home. Damien knew that the absence of one gryphon would be missed at his home. The only other large population that he knew of dwelled in the deserts of Archenland. Other than that and his island, there were only a handful of gryphons left in Narnia.

Damien grew furious at the thought of the Telmarines and what they did to Narnia and to his kind. They were the reason his particular flock of gryphons had been forced to move to the island. Damien was also frustrated with them. He was the only one who had bothered to come to Narnia to help Prince Caspian and the other Old Narnians. He had come before, to stop Miraz's ascent to the throne, but he had failed direly, and had nearly been killed.

Damien put his thoughts behind him as he saw an odd group ahead. He flew a little faster when he saw that most of those assembled were Narnian creatures. Damien then saw the Prince himself, surrounded by a strange assortment of several humans, a leopard, and an energetic fox. Damien smiled at the sight of the hyperactive creature. Damien waited for the Prince to answer him before beginning his fly-by of the camp.

Might as well make my entrance a good one. Damien thought. The rust-red and iron-blue gryphon soared once past the assembled army. He turned around with all the grace he could muster and flew back towards them. Damien cried out with a long call that was a mixture of eagle-scream and cougar-roar, announcing his presense. He tipped up his wings and flapped powerfully downwards, moving in slowly for a landing.

Damien touched down in front of Caspian. He stretched out his wings and gave a small flowing gesture with them, unfurling them to show their tops and bowing low to the Prince. "Greetings, Prince Caspian. I am Damien, a gryphon from an island near Archenland. I have come to join your cause and serve your army," Damien said, still low. He straightened and folded his wings, raising his head proudly.

"I see that you are in need of some fresh strength. I will lend mine to whatever cause you ask of me," Damien said calmly, his piercing, yellow gaze unwavering.

[Myrrine Diodorus]

In the woods surrounding the caves, there stood a graceful figure. She was hardly noticeable standing back so far in the trees, and it was very doubtful anyone laid eyes on the soft little shadow lost in among them. The figure belonged to a beautiful Dryad who had slipped away from her beech tree to watch all the commotion. For the many past years, Myrrine Diodorus had stayed hidden from the view of others. After the Telmarines invaded Narnia, her world was turned upside down and she spent many days in her tree. But Myrrine could not keep her spirit locked away, barred behind the heavy bark of her tree. Being a free spirit was part of who she was; she needed to see the Narnians and see the world.

And so, Myrrine had been watching the Narnians come and go in their hiding, always silently waiting on the outskirts. It was very rare that anyone noticed her, if they ever did, and it was even rarer that Myrrine ever spoke. As much as she couldn't resist an exciting night of dancing, there was a deep shyness about her that had increased greatly when everyone went into hiding. Now she watches the others rather than actually joining them. Eavesdropping had come in handy, there were many things Myrrine learned that she never would have known otherwise. Lately there had been much more to watch and listen to, what with Prince Caspian appearing and everyone preparing for war. It was exciting, all these Narnians ready to stand up to the Telmarines; Myrrine was prepared to back them all the way, no matter how much war disturbed her.

My, these humans could create a ruckus! That was another reason Myrrine was holding back from showing herself. Humans all left her leery, most were worthy of her hatred. This camp suddenly had become full of them-- it was the war, she supposed. Myrrine stood there, silently staring at them. They were all seemingly on edge, a few seemed to yell. There was one especially who was talking in great amounts, and Myrrine noticed that Prince Caspian seemed fidgety. He had good reason to be annoyed by her, in Myrrine's mind anyway.

There were also plenty of Narnians roaming about. For the past few days, the storm had cause Myrrine to stay in her tree. She came out only to discover that the entire Narnian camp seemed to have come down with some sort of sickness. This concerned Myrrine, for she was a fairly old Dryad, and, though she didn't know much about wars, she definitely knew that this would hurt Narnia badly against the Telmarines. Common sense and a long life were enough to teach anyone that.

Myrrine was beginning to think that she needed to show herself. It was time for Narnia to reawaken, and what was Narnia if the dryads stayed hidden forever? It wasn't that Myrrine thought so highly of herself, or even of her species, but she would have thought the same had it been a centaur or a badger or a gryphon or even a mouse. Everything about Narnia made it what it was. Now it was Myrrine's decision, bring the dryads back, or let them fae away, perhaps forever? Should she show herself after so many years, or remain hiding?

Myrrine knew what she had to do.

The dryad slowly moved forward, becoming more nervous with each second. It had been so long since she had spoken to any of these-- the ones she claimed as her brethren. She even had to wonder if some of the younger ones had ever even seen a dryad. It was possible, but very unlikely nonetheless. Dryads, or nymphs of any kind for that matter, were hardly seen around these parts anymore. Or seen around at all. Myrrine was one of the only ones who still appeared, and she never let it be known to anyone else.

But now the time had come. Myrrine was still easing forward, ever so slightly. Out of the shadows, farther and farther. The sunlight, the little that had appeared anyway, began to drop gently on the soft black waves that hung about Myrri's face. Mud oozed up beneath her feet, but she kept on. Slowly, slowly, still scared as to what would happen. The smell of wet wood drifted around her. That smell gave her comfort, somehow. Perhaps it was because trees literally were her life, or perhaps it was simply the familiarity of a dazzling green forest after a nice hard rain.

But now was hardly the time to be thinking of rain. Myrrine was busy enough trying to force herself to appear. If she turned back now, no one would see her, and things would go back to normal. Oh, tempting! But she kept moving softly forwards. By now she was getting close to the camp, someone was bound to spot her. Taking a deep breath, Myrrine took a larger step this time, and another, and another, and... before long she had reached the last tree before the camp.

Myrrine stood there, a little wide-eyed. She hadn't seen a human this close for years-- it was frightening. But fright wasn't any excuse to remain here like a giant rock. Myrrine managed to slip away from the tree; her first step into the open.

At that one step, Myrrine was exposed. It was very possible no one would even notice her, something Myrrine was wishing would happen, but it was also very likely that someone would see her there. Myrrine had appeared a bit suddenly, but she was still soft and smooth; the grace of a goddess. If there was anything that would set her apart it was that. The beech trees had the most beautiful dryads, Queen Lucy of the Golden Age had always thought so; that made Myrrine happy.

So there she stood, not uttering a word, just outside of the thick trees. Would she would be noticed? Or would no one take a second glance? Perhaps she could simply slide back into the forests...

[lovelovelove2]

Roani snickered at Senzi's comments towards Choni. She had been standing in the same spot for a few moments. As the girl looked around, she saw that everyone had walked away to help with  re-building the camp and finding supplies and other things.

The huntress looked off in one direction and saw the Prince's form walking towards the camp. Roani jogged after him. "Highness, may I ask a question?" The girl stood waiting for Prince Caspian to turn.

"I was just going to ask if I could offer my services, in other ways than setting up camp." She didn't mean to blurt it out, but she did anyways. It was just that she really wanted to see Richard and be able to hug him and hear his voice. Also, Roani knew that they would be marching to battle soon and the Narnians needed all the help they could get. They needed the Kings and Queens.


[[I know it's short. Sorry]]

[Myrrine Diodorus]

[ooc: meh, sorry for posting before I was probably supposed to... I'm just getting a little antsy to get Myrrine out into roleplaying territory, and no one else seemed to be posting, so..]

There she stood, graceful, tall, and proud. Not in a haughty way at all, but in a gentle way, like a soft ray of sunlight glittering through a forest's thick branches to land on a small patch of beautiful flowers. Myrrine's countenance was something of astonishment really, especially to anyone unaccustomed to dryads. Especially those unaccustomed to the beech tree's dryads.

And that was the thing; few seemed to remember dryads, as far as Myrrine could tell. Would her sudden emerging surprise them? How could she know? Ah, but she couldn't and that only made Myrrine all the more worried. Her goal in life tended to be pleasing those that she loved-- mainly the Narnians. Oh, the Narnians! The dryad would give her life in a heartbeat for any one of them. Myrrine could only stand on the edge of the forest watching them in pure joy. How she missed them! In this moment alone Myrrine was filled with such an emotion of love that she could not have expressed it if she wished. How could she contain herself any longer? Myrrine's eyes lit up and she began gliding forward, eagerness etched on her face.

She nearly began to run to the little circle gathered around Prince Caspian, but she stopped suddenly. Humans. Prince Caspian, she was okay with, yes, but the others? Myrrine eyed them suspiciously, now already awkwardly in the center of camp, becoming slightly oblivious to the rest of her surroundings. The humans were the killers. Murderers. Angry, war-driven, controlling, horrid, humans!

Why could Myrrine so willingly trust Caspian and not the others? It's hard to say, really. Perhaps she simply trusted the old tales of Sons of Adam and Daughters of Eve being the only true kings and queens for Narnia. Then why not trust the others? It was simply the way Myrrine thought. She was not harsh, nor unintelligent; only leery of trusting the same race which ruined all she had known. But that was besides the point now. Whether there were humans or not, Myrrine had to see her fellow Narnians. Just to be with them, hear their voices, help them in any way she could...

She approached the little group near the center of the camp. Taking a deep breath, she finally opened her mouth, announcing her presence to the others.

"Hello," the voice came soft. Smooth. Whispering, almost. Myrrine just stood there, hair soft and smooth, eyes gentle, kind-- and a bit frightened.

Would they be surprised to see her? Would the humans be horrific? Myrrine could only stand, staring at them. Waiting for a reply. Perhaps everyone would only glance at her and continue on with their own ways. It was likely no great news to them, seeing her suddenly standing in the midst of their camp.

But to Myrrine it was a life change.

[Prince Caspian]

Sometimes it was difficult for Caspian to believe that he was really leading this army ? and then when they all came crowding to him ? asking him what to do, offering their services to him, telling him that things were all going horribly wrong? those were the moments he knew without a doubt that he was, in fact, leading this army. So many relied on him to be well and he was having a difficult time fighting the worry of his falling ill, for surely he was. So long as it didn?t get too bad, things would carry on as they had been.

Caspian could not help but chuckle as an eager, excited fox bounded to him and asked him if he could help, if he could be a scout and sneak to the Telmarine?s camp. He informed Caspian then that he would run circles around them and confuse them, lure them into the forest and then they would be lost to Miraz. He pondered the idea, most amused by the fox?s eagerness. ?It is a most interesting idea, friend,? he murmured, deciding it probably wouldn?t win them any wars but the stories that came from the whole thing would undoubtedly be quite humorous. And the whole camp could use a little something to laugh about at this point. He couldn?t see it causing any harm ? and if the fox managed to free Miraz of a couple soldiers, all the better then.

?You may go,? Caspian said as he smiled down at Cillian, ?but bring another along ? it isn?t wise to approach Miraz?s camp alone.?

A gryphon touched down in front of Caspian then, and with final thanks and few more words of approval to the fox before him, he turned his attention to the majestic, winged creature that had just landed.

?Greetings, Damien,? Caspian replied, bowing also in greeting. ?I, and I am sure the rest of the camp also, is made glad for your support. Indeed we are in great need of fresh strength and thoughts. The offer of assistance is much appreciated. I believe Glenstorm the centaur is, at the moment, the best to ask about what needs yet to be accomplished. He is over there,? he finished, pointing towards the cluster of tents being put up, ?for now, overseeing the rebuilding of the camp. We?ve all only just stumbled from Aslan?s How after a horrid storm? once everything is set up and ready, I should like to talk with you, hear more about this island near Archenland.?

He smiled at Damien too, though he was quickly being distracted by the scratchiness of his throat. He focused on not coughing and on keeping his voice and gaze steady. He would have to find Elba promptly and get some medicines from her, so as not to fall too ill.

Out of nowhere, Roani had approached him --- he wondered if she had been standing there long ? and requested rather quickly if she could assist him in some way other than the re-building of camp. He looked her over, wondering what should prompt such a request. What was there to really do, besides re-building? But as he thought back, he recalled a fondness between the girl and Sir Cross. Where was Sir Cross, anyway? Thinking hard, he couldn?t remember seeing him leave the How with everyone else?

?Roani,? he asked softly, searching the girl?s expression, ?Where is Sir Cross? I don?t recall having seen him in a while ? where has he gone off to; and where are you eager to be going that requires some sort of? permission from myself, from the sounds of it??

He was curious, unnaturally curious. Something caught his attention though, and he turned his gaze from her to an approaching figure.

She had all the look of a dryad, from what he?d been told of them anyway. But were the trees not asleep? If the girl was indeed one of the blessed trees, that was. He looked from Roani to the young woman who had approached the group; he was close enough to make out the sight of her, but not close enough to see her clearly. But there was something... different. She had to be a dryad. But he needed to know for sure.

[Nikki!]

Elba felt herself stirring and all at once the pain erupted in her head, giving her alarm enough to startle awake. The sky, now a dimmer blue as the sun set, was free of clouds and the sight enlivened the girl. She stood, leaning against the tree she'd taken refuge under. What time she'd sat down to rest she had no idea, but now it was early evening and she had gotten nothing done. She'd wanted to make sure the food was cooked and there was enough shelter for all the sicker and weaker animals and there was the-

"How about it, your majesty? Will it be useful? I'm so excited," he said as he started rambling again, "Telmarines are so witless! They know nothing of the forest as I do. I will lead them into the forest and around in circles and they will become lost! If I do that long enough, a rather large number of Telmarine soliders will be lost to Miraz. Brilliant!"

The voice drew her attention over to where a few Narnians had gathered to speak. Choni was gone, though Elba was well aware of her true name now but Roani and the Prince remained along with their new compnay, a small and chattery fox along with a tall majestic Gryphon that Elba didn't recognize. She watched, entranced, the talking beasts of this land never ceased to fill her with wonder. Her footsteps were quiet as she approached and she listened to his words, smiling softly as she stood on the fringes of the small crowd. As the conversation went on she stepped forward, listening as Caspian asked a quesion of Roani.

?Roani,? he asked softly, searching the girl?s expression, ?Where is Sir Cross? I don?t recall having seen him in a while ? where has he gone off to; and where are you eager to be going that requires some sort of? permission from myself, from the sounds of it??

"Yes Roani, I haven't seen him either, and I've been meaning to look at his wound again." she said with a smile. She knew of the fondness the two shared, and was sure Sir Cross was fine, she just didn't like to keep loose stings.

"And you my good sir!" she joked, looking up at the Prince, an eyebrow raised "Need your rest."

She suppressed a cough herself.

"A few of my men have begun setting up sick bays for the more seriously ill." she said, more to the gathering crowd than anyone else "From there it's should be easier to build up camp again."

Elba hoped so. They stood no chance againt Miraz's skilld and infinitly more well resourced army if they didn't keep their heads about them. And speaking of Miraz she still hadn't gotten any time with Adimon. She was sure, with time and medicine, she could bring him out of this momentary lapse of memory. She looked about, as if trying to remember where the prisoner was being held. She opened her mouth to speak but paused, looking into the distance as a shape appeared. As with allt he other new sights and sounds of Narnia, this one caught Elba speechless. She watched as the graceful, beautiful, etheral woman approached. The same though crossed her mind as Caspian. From what she had read the woman looked eerily liek the ancient dryads, the one's rumored to still be under a slumber. If the trees were awakened...

"Aslan?" she wondered outloud. It was a ridiculous thought but if the tree spirits had been awakened then what else could explain it. She watched, intrigued and curious.

"Hello,"

Her voice was like the wind, there but not tanigible at all. Elba looked into her eyes and tried her best to smile warmly.

"Greetings Lady." she said, stretching out her hand. This was more than surreal "And welcome back."

[Myrrine Diodorus]

Myrrine stood there, unsure what she should do. Never had the dryad been the one to lead, and now she had somehow caught the attention of all these people. If there was anything unnerving for Myrrine, it was the eyes of these humans landing on her, causing her own eyes to spark a certain fear. This was not what she wanted at all. But perhaps if her fellow Narnians could trust them, she could too. Perhaps.

While some of the group seemed to just stare at her --causing Myrrine to become more unnerved-- one finally spoke up. The Daughter of Eve was beautiful, with her dark hair and almond-like eyes. But that was the problem-- she was a Daughter of Eve. She made Myrrine wish to whisk herself away, back into the forest and forget she had ever left the solace of her tree. But she could not flee now, Myrrine knew that. She must face the humans, even if she hated them... and they were on her side, right?

Myrrine watched, completely confused as the Daughter of Eve stretched her hand forth. It was a very strange gesture, and Myrrine simply did not understand what it meant. The dryad looked at the lady, her face covered with wonder, head cocking slightly to the side. She opened her mouth, as if to speak, but no sound came. She glanced around at the others, beginning to feel that horrible suffocating fear that she always felt back when...

Myrrine's eyes closed tightly at the thought. Her family, her friends, her life. Gone, because of the Telmarines! She wanted to bolt, flee, run as far away as she could from this place.

But wait! There were Narnians here. Myrrine forced herself to open her eyes again, fear shimmering out from them. What if the humans turned on her? No, no, she had to control herself. Convince herself that the humans weren't going to ruin her immediately. But it was so much harder than it sounded.

She still had not said a word. But if Glenstorm should appear (Myrrine had known the centaur nearly her entire life) or if another Narnian spoke, perhaps she would calm down. The humans were just terrifying for the poor dryad-- she could hardly even speak to them.

[Senzi Naffis]

Senzi had been unsucessful at find something to help with in the destroyed camp. This was one of the downsides of being what he was. Or was it a plus? It wasn't his fault that his paws couldn't grab things the way human hands could. Not to mention this saved his strength for a battle should one arise. But, of course, the leopard would help any way he could. He could probably haul a wagon or something similar around.

The cat's thought were interrupted by a string of chatter. For a moment, Senzi thought the Choni woman was back. Upon further inspection, the leopard discovered it was simply a fox. Senzi never did understand foxes. They seemed like they were halfway between an evolution of a dog to a cat or the other way around. "Thank you, highness," the fox said repeatedly and rather quickly, "you will be happy with me, I promise!" And with that, it shot off into the woods with another fox in the direction of the enemy camp.

Thinking it was safe to again approach the group, Senzi wandered over and silently listened to the talk. Upon mention of a Sir Cross, the leopard remembered the so-called knight he and Sprite the owl had met a day or so ago. "I don't mean to interrupt," the cat said, "but I met this Sir Cross only yesterday. Or maybe it was the day before..." He trailed off and tried to remember what all had happened.

It was then that Senzi noticed the new woman approach. "Why, if it isn't a dryad," he said cheerfully, "I haven't seen one of your kind since I was a cub." He had yet to see any other dryads or nymphs around camp. But then again, they did look so like humans when they were out and about, it was often difficult for Senzi to tell the difference. But he was sure of this one. She was so shy and uncertain that she couldn't have been human.

[lovelovelove2]

Roani gazed at the newcomer, alittle warily. She wasn't too fond of people or rather other beings just walking into camp, since the "Choni Inncident." She recalled her Prince's and Healer Elba's questions.

?Roani, where is Sir Cross? I don?t recall having seen him in a while ? where has he gone off to; and where are you eager to be going that requires some sort of? permission from myself, from the sounds of it?? and "Yes Roani, I haven't seen him either, and I've been meaning to look at his wound again."

The huntress turned to face her companions. "Richard has gone in search of recruits for the army," she answered with a sigh. "I thought he had asked you if he could, Your Highness. I am very eager to bring him and any new recruits back since the Camp is being rebuilt."

Roani turned and looked at the leaopard. He had mentioned seeing the knight a few days earlier. The girl knelt to his height, to be eye to eye. "You did see him?" She asked with gusto. "How was he? Did his arm seem to bother him?"

[Damien Arrowing]

Damien repressed a sigh of relief. He was overjoyed at finally being able to help the Narnians in their quest for freedom from the Telmarines, and he was relieved that there seemed to be plenty for a strong young gryphon to do. Damien glanced over in the direction Caspian motioned when he spoke of Glenstorm the centaur, and sure enough, he was there. Damien was eager to go to him and ask what help he needed, but he couldn't forget his manners.

Damien gave another elegant flare of his wings, bowing his head briefly. "It will be an honor to serve you, my prince, and I will do whatever is necessary to aide you, so that you may rid Narnia of these oppressive Telmarines. And I will be happy to speak with you later. Farewell, for now," Damien said, turning away.

Damien could barely restrain himself from rushing over to the centaur, so eager was he to help. Damien enjoyed physical work; he found it relaxing. And the work here was to a very noble cause. However, Damien forced himself to stride over with all the power and grace he could muster. The gryphon was anxious to make a good impression, even though he hardly needed to, being such a majestic-looking creature. He laughed inwardly at himself, amused at his sudden self-consciousness. It was understandable, though, for he had only really been around gryphons for his entire life, and had never spoken to humans.

As Damien was walking, he gave a quick glance back towards the group around Caspian, and noticed the nervous figure a little ways beyond. Well clip my claws, is that a dryad? In Narnia? he exclaimed inwardly. Damien had seen a few dryads back home, where they were free of the Telmarines and their threat, but he had never seen one on the mainland, and had always heard that the Narnian dryads were supposed to be dormant. It was a dormancy that had been lasting for ages, and Damien was utterly surprised to see one here. He smiled, for this was certainly a good sign, though surprising.

Damien turned back to his goal, finally coming up to the tall centaur. Though Damien was a large and powerful gryphon, he was not as tall as a horse and was not nearly as tall as a centaur. Glenstorm was towering over him.

"Prince Caspian informed me that you can show me what jobs I can accomplish," Damien said with respect in his voice for the centaur. Glenstorm politely told him that their were several structures that needed erecting, and a large flying creature would certainly be a great asset to keeping things upright. Damien happily moved off in the indicated direction, pausing briefly to glance back at the dryad and the group now addressing her.

[Myrrine Diodorus]

When the leopard spoke Myrrine seemed to soften. The tenseness left her face and the fearful look disappeared from her eyes. Everything within her suddenly wished to dance, for here, standing directly in front of her, was a Narnian. A true blooded Narnian, a talking animal, a friend and a brother. Myrrine's mouth slowly slid into a gentle smile, and her eyes lit up with happiness, as though her whole face was a ray of sunlight.

It was rare that Myrrine's emotions changed so quickly, but it must be remembered what the dear dryad was going through. She had a love for Narnia that is almost incomprehensible for many. It wasn't that others didn't love Narnia, but Myrrine had seen it before the Telmarines. She knew about freedom and she remembered the days when every creature was treated properly. The world had been happy and free. Myrrine understood what Narnia was. Who Narnia was. So meeting another Narnian now....

It was like jumping into a cool lake on a hot summer day; refreshing and wonderful, but the quick climate change made you shiver. The dryad could hardly think straight, because her climate had just changed so drastically. But the new climate felt wonderful. In fact, for Myrrine, it felt perfect. Perfect and homey and wonderful. The dryad could only keep smiling, as she looked down at the leopard.

"Yes, I am a dryad," she responded to the cat, her voice coming in that same sweet, drifting melody. She stood there, the gentle smile not leaving her face, only staring at the beautiful cat in front of her. Her mind had completely focused onto the Narnian, and all humans were forgotten for the moment. It felt so good, so perfect, to speak to a Narnian--like a sweet balm covering an aching wound.

"What is your name?" She requested of the leopard. The humans would likely speak again, bringing her from her trance. But for now humans didn't exist. Just Myrrine and a Narnian--a talking leopard, that is. Myrrine's black hair flowed with the gentle breeze, flapping softly around her neck. Her green eyes almost danced, her smile the closest thing to a dancing dryad anyone had likely seen for a very long time.

[Senzi Naffis]

Senzi fought to keep his expression from slipping into an irritated look. He hated it when people knelt in front of him to see eye to eye. It made him feel like a human child. He had seen many a parent kneel down to talk to their children like this in his time. "Yes, I did see him," the leopard said, successfully keeping his expression calm, "and I saw no hint of injury about him. If he was feeling pain, he did not show it."

The cat could not remember all the events of that day. He decided that his little cat nap had wiped his memory clean of the event. He had never been one to remember details of things. "I first met him at the Dancing Lawns, I believe. There was an owl there as well. If I remember correctly, his name was Sprite. I'm sorry, but I seem to not remember much after that."

The dryad seemed to relax now. "I go by Senzi," the leopard said, "Senzi Naffis. I must say, it is a relief to see one of your kind out and about. The old Narnia is waking up. May I ask your name?" The cat decided that he must get to know the dryad better. He'd always wanted to know about the old Narnia from someone who'd actually lived it. He could have asked one of the centaurs, but Senzi always felt uneasy around them. They were just so...big.

[Myrrine Diodorus]

Myrrine watched tentatively as the leopard spoke to another human lady. It was so strange, seeing humans this close. Myrrine was almost staring in wonder. Dryads really looked quite similar to humans... in a way. They were very different, almost giant-like in comparison. And they seemed to be too nature-like for a human. Almost leafy and branchy, in a way, but oh so beauitful.

"I first met him at the Dancing Lawns, I believe."

Myrrine felt a little twitch at the cat's words. She wanted to see the Dancing Lawns... Not empty that is. She wanted to see the Dancing Lawns full of Narnians again. A small spark was glowing in her eyes. Just to see this camp was amazing for the Dryad. It had been so very long since she had laid eyes on any of these creatures so closely...

"My name is Myrrine," the dryad said with a smile, after Senzi pronounced his name. He seemed to be very friendly, and Myrrine would have liked him without a doubt, even if he had been rude. The dryad's loyalty was almost unrealistic.

At his mention of the trees awakening, Myrrine shook her head slowly, the soft hair cascading about her shoulders. "The others are lost in their sleep. I am only here because I did not allow myself to be sucked so far into my tree..." she trailed off, a longing look in her beautiful eyes. "When Aslan comes," Myrrine's voice became so soft that she could hardly be heard. "He will bring them back.

{ooc: eek! sorry for the bad post. x.x}

[karie]

Adele had been taking refuge on a cave and when the rain drops stopped falling she smiled and patted her horse. She sighed in relief as she thought about reassuming her journey to look for the other Narnian's. She swung her leg up and jumped sitting on Thunder's back. The brown horse took a few steps backwards and took impulse out of the cave, riding with a smile rider on his back.

The Pixie's pointy ears heard some movement and she looked back as the horse continued forward. She was wearing a blue dress with a belt that helped her with her sword. She also had a couple of arrows and an old bow that she took from her father's room. She couldn't help but hear along all around the place. She looked down at her horse and then up to the direction the noises where coming from. "I wonder who is around this place at a time like this" she muttered to herself. Her hair was tight on a bun making her able to see her surroundings without her hair in the way.

Adele's heart was pounding as she got off Thunder and grabbed his rope and walked along him to check on the noises, now that she could hear them clearly she noticed that people were talking. She saw many creatures and people together that made her gasp in interest.

Thunder started nudging his head to the side taking a few steps to where the group was standing and she grabbed the rope tightly.  Her blue dress moving along with her as she tried to hide from them. But somehow the horse wanted to do the opposite whinnying for some more attention. "Shush you" she whispered to the horse but then knew that the other strangers would hear them.

{occ: Hope this was ok for a first post}

[Prince Caspian]

At least someone had seen Cross recently, the thought was welcoming to Caspian. Richard was one of his most loyal subjects, it seemed, and he would hate to see any harm come to him. Still, he wished the man hadn’t wandered off like he had; the last thing the young prince needed was for more of his army to either fall ill, or, Aslan forbid, perish in pursuit of fresh troops. Though, they did need more troops… their army was getting ill and would start to fall apart if much more happened to damper their spirits. It was good that the rain had stopped when it did.

So much was going through his mind as he took in the sight of his fellow Narnians, doing their best to re-build the camp. The storm had made the area nearly beyond salvage but if anyone could accomplish it, it would be these creatures that he had grown quite fond of. He didn’t miss the comfort of Miraz’s castle any more, not now, not when he felt as though he was doing something worthwhile. He was needed here; back at the castle he had been little more than a distraction, a nuisance – at least as soon as his uncle found out that his wife was with child.

Caspian was dizzy, and he knew he was falling ill. Dangerously ill, it seemed from the way he felt at present. His mind was wandering far too fast and he could feel his breathing speed up in an attempt to get enough air. How the world around him was spinning, how cold the air felt in his lungs! First he felt too warm, then too cold. But he was determined not to let any of that stop him, not now, not when they needed every ounce of fight left in all of them.

But he could see the weakness, the struggle in the eyes of so many. He wasn’t the only one having a hard time, wasn’t the only one whose body had taken issue with the nasty weather. As a whole, the Narnians were doing well. He had heard very little complaining, and the little he had heard since leaving the cave had been quietly but quickly shushed by those nearby.

”I think,” he said to the few left standing near by, ”That an inventory needs to be taken of our food, and depending on how much is left, some should be sent out to… he paused, trying to draw in enough air and fight back the dizzy spell. To… to get… He couldn’t finish, it took too much effort and too much air.

Sinking to the ground, he took his head in his hands. What was happening to him? The world just wouldn’t stop spinning enough to allow him to get a solid grasp on what was going on and what needed to be done. I need to get up, I need to help, he thought. I need…

Drawing in a shaky breath, he attempted to stand – but found he had far less strength in him than he had originally thought. Gasping for air, Caspian felt himself slipping to the ground but couldn’t process much else. Consciousness faded away from him as he tried to hold onto it. Failing, he slipped away into darkness.

((I apologize for the shoddy reply. >.> I’ve kinda gotten out of the habit of replying and I’m getting back into it now. Lol. Sorry.))

[Senzi Naffis]

"Your presence is very reassuring, Myrrine," Senzi said, "more than likely, you are not the only dryad that has awakened. Others will come soon." He offered her a small smile. Or what he could manage of one. He sat down and scratched behind his right ear. It was a habit he seemed to have picked up over the past few weeks, though he didn't know how it started. "I hope I don't have fleas," he muttered to himself.

The leopard instinctively jumped when Caspian hit the ground. "You humans," Senzi joked, knowing the panic that would come, "so easy to catch cold." The leopard knew that the prince had no ordinary cold. He padded over to the prince and nudged the prince with his head. "Out cold," he muttered. He looked around at the others and said, "Well I can't carry him!"

(ooc: Mornings don't work for me...)

[Myrrine Diodorus]

Myrrine could see the stress on poor Caspian's face as he tried to give out the orders. Concern washed over the dryad immediately, and her eyes didn't leave him as he fought the dizziness. At his sudden drooping to the ground, Myrrine began to flow towards him. Only a moment later the prince had collapsed, and -- though Myrrine paused as Senzi kicked their poor leader -- it only took her a moment to be by his side.

Brushing the leopard to the side -- and not paying any attention to the little comments he was making, mind you -- Myrrine knelt down beside Caspian. She gently pulled his head into her lap, pushing back the hair from his forehead. "Someone fetch a bucket of water," She said softly, but sternly as she assessed the prince's situation.

The poor young man had been worked far too hard, and he was far too sick to be out at all. It was no wonder he had collapsed. Myrrine was often a shy and reserved dryad, but she knew what needed to be done and she wasn't about to let the prince suffer any longer. Taking charge, she began voicing her thoughts. "He must be taken back into a cave. We'll need a fire, to warm both him and the water. I will go and gather a few herbs to help him. Be sure that he does not leave the cave -- someone stay by his side at all times."

Hoping the others would heed her word quickly, Myrrine gently laid the prince's head back down and rose. "Glenstorm, my dear old friend, should be placed in charge until the prince is well again." And with that, Myrrine soon disappeared into the trees. Not to worry, though. She would return quickly.

[Trufflehunter]

 Trufflehunter sighed as he padded his way through the mess that had once been the camp outside of Aslan’s How, lending a helping paw wherever he could. The storm had certainty been devastating, the evidence of that being the mostly destroyed camp that was now beginning to be repaired. This was certainly a setback, but they would make it through with hard work and faith in Aslan.

He moved past a group of tents being rebuilt and heard with his sharp ears a feminine voice asking for someone to fetch a bucket of water. He heard the female give instructions as to caring for whoever had fallen ill from the storm, and entered the vicinity just in time to see a dark haired dryad disappear into the trees. It didn’t take the badger but a few seconds to identify the unconscious form on the grass as the Caspian.

He hurried forward as fast as his short legs would carry him. Of all the Narnian’s to fall ill from the storm it had to be the young heir to the throne. Trufflehunter laid a paw gently on the prince’s forehead and sighed at the hotness he felt radiating from the boy. “Aslan help us.”

[Myrrine Diodorus]

Nearly just as quickly as she had gone, Mrryine was back. She knew this woods like the back of her hand, for she had lived there so long. Not only this, but Myrrine was a healer and she knew exactly where to find the correct herbs. There was only one problem. Myrrine had not used her skills in such a long time, that she was a bit afraid to present them once more on the prince. That didn't matter in the least for now; Caspian was in need, and Myrrine was going to give him aid.

No one had yet moved Caspian into a cave, but someone had brought a pot of hot water. Immediately the herbs were being prepared by her skillful fingers, which seemed to have not forgotten their trade -- even if it was far from being shown at it's fullest. A gentle aroma wafted into the air, neither bitter nor sweet. It wasn't going to heal the prince immediately, Myrrine knew that nothing but rest could do him the most good now, but it would definitely help. As the herbs became ready Myrrine began speaking again.

"He really must be put into shelter. We'll need a horse." She began glancing around the camp for a horse to help them transfer their dear cargo. Or the owner of a horse who wouldn't mind helping.

[Senzi Naffis]

Senzi took off when Myrrine said a bucket of water was needed. He scouted the area outside the How for buckets the might have been left out in the rain. The leopard didn't have much hope of finding one that was still upright. At last, he found a bucket that had withstood the storm. It was leaning against a stone. He lifted the bucket by holding the handle in his mouth. It was a bit akward moving at first, as the bucket nearly touched the ground and the leopard's front legs kept hittting the object.

Holding his head up as high as possible to avoid spilling anything, the cat approached the dryad and placed the bucket at her feet. Senzi looked to Myrrine, then to Caspian, then back again, trying to figure out a way to carry the prince. "Maybe I could carry half of him on my back, and then you could carry the other half," the leopard said cheerfully, thinking his idea was genius.

(Sorry for the crappy post. Again. XP)

[Trufflehunter]

Trufflehunter watched in silence as the dryad returned with herbs to help Caspian, while a leopard arrived who had apparently been around before the badger had arrived to see the fallen prince for he carried a bucket of water in his teeth. The leopard set the water down at the dryad’s feet before looking to Caspian for a moment.

"Maybe I could carry half of him on my back, and then you could carry the other half"

“I will help carry him in whatever way possible if we cannot find a horse to aid us,” Trufflehunter added to the leopard’s idea. Hopefully between the three Narnian’s, they could move Caspian into the cave so he could heal. I shall have to make him more soup once he is awake, the badger thought as he looked down at the unconscious prince.

[Myrrine Diodorus]

Myrrine thanked Senzi for the bucket of water, and thanked both of the beautiful creatures for there offers of help. "I believe that Senzi's idea will have to do," she said, gently beginning to lift Caspian off the ground. Myrrine was much stronger than she appeared, and she did not have much trouble lifting him at all. She placed him, as if seated, over the side of Senzi's back. "Now, my dear badger, if you will take his feet, and I will take his arms and head, we can get him safely to the caves."

Myrrine rarely talked so much, but since no one else was taking charge, and the prince was in desperate need of help, now became an exception. It was this plan that would have to do, and the dryad began carrying it out. It was a bit difficult to keep a steady movement going between the three of them, without anyone beginning to trip, or one moving too fast or another too slow. They did manage though, and it didn't take them too much time.

Myrrine urged them farther back into the caves and then, after placing the Prince on some soft mats, she glided out to get the water. In a moment she was back, and busily bent over the poor prince.

{ooc: awful post, i know. so, so sorry for the lack of posting lately! i've been so busy...}

[Trufflehunter]

Trufflehunter nodded that he understood the dryad’s instructions and moved down towards Caspian’s feet. He then picked up the prince’s feet while the dryad took his arms and head and the leopard supported him in the middle so his back would not trail on the ground. The last thing the poor boy needed was a sore and scratched up back on top of his illness.

With the three of them, the moving of Caspian into the caves was very slow going. What with the dryad being so much taller than the badger and all of them trying to keep a steady pace and not trip, the trip into the caves was a difficult process. But somehow or another they managed to do it rather quickly and they were soon setting Caspian down on some soft mats.

A few moments after setting him down the dryad quickly glided out of the room. Before Trufflehunter could even ask where she had gone, she had returned with water and was soon kneeling over the unconscious prince. Trufflehunter stepped back to allow the dryad some room to work.

[Arina Penley Carison]

Choni drew a shaky breath and tried to wet her lips, but her mouth was dry. Several of the canvas' were sewn back together and several of her favorite dresses had been sewn into canvas. It wrenched her heart to do it, but she figured as long as she got a look of shock on the prince's face, she'd live through the loss. As her thoughts lingered on the prince, her eyes travelled back to the mouth of the tunnel where she expected he'd still be standing, surrounded by his subjects, at least one of them annoying.

But what she saw was these loyal subjects hoisting the prince's body inside. What had happened? He was sick, of course. He probably hadn't taken her advice and let Lady Elba tend to him. Would it really have been so threatening for his precious army to see him taking medicine? Was it not worse to fall over in front of them? Men were stupid and prideful and Caspian was not excluded from the category.

They looked like they were having a time of it and Choni almost wished she had noticed sooner and offered Tyber's services. Biting her lip, she stood, but then swayed slightly, becoming light headed. She stood still for a moment, willing it away before marching slowly towards the caves and inside, leaving the canvas' to be put up and leaving her horse to graze freely.

Inside, she wrinkled her nose in a grimmace, only just realizing how used to the fresh air she'd become during the short stretch outside. Caves smelled like wet laundry that was left to sit for days rather than hang out and dry. She put a hand to her mouth to cough, blaming it on the musty smell as she approached the small group.

"What's happened?" She sounded fatigued to herself and she forced her voice to sound as normal. "Is the prince alright?"

[Adimon Tescar]

Adimon was beginning to become resigned to the fact that he didn't know who he was. He knew more about his situation, though, having wrangled what he could from stir-crazy animals sitting out the storm in the caves (he actually found them easier to talk to than the supposedly-mythological creatures. they at least, were supposed to exist. they just weren't supposed to talk.). A couple of times, he felt his memory to be just within his grasp, but when he tried to reach it, it fled away.

Gathering information hadn't been the only thing Adimon had done during his time in the caves.  He found he couldn't stay inactive for long.  He needed to do something, even if that meant helping an army he had no sympathy for and had been told was his enemy.  So he did small individual tasks here and there, staying as far away from any non-humans as he could except to obtain information.

Now that Adimon had been told who we was, he knew where he could go. All he had to do was find the other army camp, and this King Miraz would definitely take him in.  Adimon was still being closely watched, but as he helped out and showed no signs of wanting to escape or of regaining his memory, they no longer kept him bound.  So escape was not impossible, though while surrounded by enemies, Adimon had to wait for the opportune moment.

That moment came sooner than he'd hoped.

Adimon had just finished fletching a few arrows -- for the army, but also for himself -- when he heard a commotion in a nearby cave.  Gathering his arrows, he went to investigate.  Caspian, he found, was the source of the ruckus, though the prince himself wasn't making any noise. In fact, he was completely still. He must have fainted due to his all-to-evident illness.  He'd worked himself too hard, that was obvious. Adimon was never one to shy away from work, but he also knew what he had to do to keep himself healthy.

Not that he was exactly healthy now.  His concussion had weakened him, and the dampness and cold had made it worse.  So when the illness attacked, he had little defenses against it, and it had easily defeated him. But he'd made sure to get rest in between his minor tasks; he hadn't been trying to command an embarrassingly unprepared army.  He therefore still had enough strength to escape, provided he encountered little resistance.

And now was the perfect time to effect that escape.  The prince was unconcious, though Adimon knew enough of medicine to predict the prince's eventual recovery, the event was turning everyone's attention to their leader. Perfect. Still holding his arrows, Adimon walked non-chalantly towards the mouth of the cave. If anyone asked, he was simply delivering the arrows to a general.

Once out, he would grab his belongings, which he'd previously located, and get away as inconspicuously as possible.

[Senzi Naffis]

Once the prince was settled, Senzi walked back through the caves. He decided to stay within earshot so he could lend a paw should the dryad require his services. As he walked, he spied a human he hadn't seen before walking towards the mouth of the cave. The leopard was fairly certain that he knew all of the humans that inhabited the camp as there really weren't that many. The cat had heard tell of a Telmarine captive. Perhaps this was him. Having nothing better to do, Senzi padded over to the man. As he caught up with the man, Senzi caught a whiff of him and quickly drew away from him.

"Am I correct in assuming that you are the Telmarine captive I've heard so much about?" he asked, exhaling loudly through his nose to get rid of the smell, "Do you not wash yourself? Do you know how bad you smell?" The cat sat down in front of the man, tail curled around paws as always, and studied him. The leopard hoped the man would stop and talk to him for a bit. It was getting boring for Senzi around the camp as there was little he could do to help rebuild the destoryed camp. He was a rough looking man. Senzi was interested in what the man's reaction would be to him. The cat didn't expect much of anything since it looked like the Telmarine had been here for a while.

(ooc:Short, crappy post. Sorry guys. XD)

[Adimon Tescar]

Blast it! He had been noticed.  One of those infernal talking animals intercepted him just before he got to the mouth of the cave, and began to speak.

"Am I correct in assuming that you are the Telmarine captive I've heard so much about? Do you not wash yourself? Do you know how bad you smell?"

Adimon stiffened. How did the creature expect him to smell, after he'd been a captive for weeks in an army camp? And who was the leopard to talk? He was an animal, he didn't smell too well either.  Not to mention that if Adimon did smell bad, which he himself didn't doubt, the impertinence of even mentioning such a thing was astounding. He wanted to retort back, but his goal right now was to be as inconspicuous as possible.  He was so close to effecting his escape; he just needed to get rid of this pesky leopard before everyone else left the prince as well.

So instead, Adimon stated politely, "Yes, I'm the captive, unfortunately. I'm sorry that I smell, but I've been stuck in these caves for far too long, what with the rain and all. And now, I beg pardon for not staying to talk, but I really must deliver these arrows."

With that, he moved to get around the leopard, who had sat down right in front of him, rather too familiarly for his taste.  He hoped the animal didn’t continue to follow him. The prince was still unconscious; the leopard should want to stay close by just in case, right?

((OoC: Don't worry, my post is way short as well!))

[Prince Caspian]

Caspian’s eyelids fluttered; he was feeling consciousness return to him and he was desperate to hold onto it. What had happened? He could feel the hard stone floor beneath him and wondered where he was. Why wasn’t he in bed back at the castle? Surely his servants would be coming to wake him shortly; had he slept in? Had he missed breakfast at the great table? Perhaps there was something special about today and that was why no one had come to wake him. Perhaps…

He groaned as he tried to pull himself to sitting. His head was pounding as he collapsed back against the floor. Memories came flooding back to him; he was long gone from the castle. He had fled for his life, surely that wasn’t something he ought to forget. He was leading an army. Oh yes. But which army? Caspian kept his eyes shut tightly, any little bit of light causing his head to positively throb. Army… an army? Yes, yes, he thought, Aslan’s army. It was all coming back to him. But why was he on the floor?

Rubbing his hands against his face he dared to peek out through squinted eyelids – and quickly shut his eyes against the minimal light once again. He was back in the caves; why? Hadn’t they all piled out of there to rebuild the camp? Had it begun to rain again? He could hear creatures milling about around him, but the noises all sounded so far away, as though he was hearing it all through a great amount of water.

Caspian started to cough, his whole body shaking as he did so. It was incredibly painful but he kept from crying out as he wrapped his arms tightly around his stomach. When the fit subsided he tried yet again to open his eyes. This time the light wasn’t nearly as painful – the caves were rather dim, he couldn’t imagine stepping outside – and he managed to keep them open. He had been right, there were most definitely others around him. He wondered how much of a fuss he had caused.

”What happened, exactly?” he asked weakly, wondering if anyone could even hear him. ”Why am I here? How long have I been out?” The last thing he needed at the moment was to get ill; though it seemed that it had already happened. Were many others affected? He saw someone that he didn’t recognize – a young girl with water who must have been tending to him – and the good badger. There were others, too, though his vision was a little foggy and he was having a difficult time making out the faces.

He wanted to sit up, wanted to be of some use. He wondered if anyone would even take him seriously any more. What sort of prince, the one who was supposed to be leading this army and freeing it’s soldiers, just lost consciousness? 

[Trufflehunter]

Trufflehunter sniffed the air and looked up to the doorway that had entered through moments before to see another human enter the caves. Thought this human was female. Trufflehunter heard her question and glanced down at the ill Caspian before replying to her. “His majesty has fallen ill.”

As Trufflehunter replied to the human, he saw the leopard leave the group and head towards a lone human near the entrance to the caves that the badger had failed to notice before. Before he could wonder who it was that the leopard lied down in front of he, the badger heard a groan from the prince and turned around to see him fall back to the floor. Caspian briefly opened his eyes before quickly shutting them once more.

“Your majesty!” the badger cried as the young human’s body began to shake as he coughed, wrapping his arms around his stomach as he coughed. Trufflehunter watched in concern as the boy continued to cough for several moments before the fit subsided. The badger sighed in relief as the boys eyes opened and stayed open as he wearily took in those standing around him.

“You fell ill your majesty,” he replied to the boy’s question, moving forward and setting a paw gently on the prince’s arm as he spoke. “As for how long, I do not know. I arrived just after you had fallen.”

((OOC: ugh, crappy post.))

[Arina Penley Carison]

Ill? Of course he was ill- he was a pigheaded boy who didn't know how to take care of himself mostly because he didn't think he needed taking care of. Her brother was the same, never admitting when he was sick because he didn't want people to think he was weak. Idiot boys... She should admit when she wasn't well. She paused as her head swam. That's not ill, that's just... getting used to my surroundings. Of course Choni wasn't falling sick. She'd admit it if she was.

Caspian stirred and she had to admit, he looked awful. She glanced around the cave, sure she had left her herbs in here when she'd left earlier. She spotted the skin she'd wrapped them in atop a large stone she'd been sitting on and walked over to scoop it up. There was a special tea her nurse brewed when she was sick, but she couldn't remember which of these she added. Chamomile, she remembered that much. She even recognized the plant. As for the rest of it, she couldn't tell one from the other. How had she expected to use medicine if she didn't know what it was or what it did? Or what it looked like?

She sighed. Obviously, she couldn't do this. She didn't want to say so in front of the prince since he'd already accused her of not being who she said she was -which, she wasn't, but that was the point- but she didn't see any way around it unless she could call the badger away. He might know what to do with this, or at least be able to tell it apart. Choni stared hard at the herbs again, trying to tell them apart and name them, but the only one she could identify was chamomile. She picked it up between her thumb and forefinger and glared at it. Why couldn't it be something more important like... like... She didn't know what was important because she didn't even know the names of these plants!

Sighing, she walked back over to the badger and the prince and kneeled down, laying the skin in front of her. "I think these can help," she told the badger, speaking quietly and hoping the prince wasn't paying attention. She'd never hoped for people not to pay attention to her before. Except that insufrable Baron's son. She carefully returned the chamomile back to the selection. "But I don't know what they are." I don't even know what they do, she thought to herself. At least she knew how to brew tea- that was something, yes? It was one of the things that she was supposed to know how to do even though she never had to do it. "I thought maybe you might?"

They'd come from her family's personal store of medicinal herbs, so whatever they were, they must be the best. Her mother would never settle for anything less. Choni just wished she'd taken more of an interest in medicine.

[Senzi Naffis]

Senzi didn't trust this man. He didn't even really trust most of the humans in the camp, captive or not. The leopard decided to follow the man around to make sure he didn't disappear. Plus it seemed that the man could be easily agitated. The cat cast a quick glance back at the caves. He was confident that his services were no longer required. There were many others that could take his place.

"If you don't mind terribly," he said as he started after the man, "I'll come with you. We wouldn't want you to get lost, now would we. By Aslan's mane, that would not be good." After walking in silence for a moment, Senzi asked, "Who, praytell, are you delivering these arrows to and who asked you to deliver them? It is curious that they would ask you of all people. Especially since you probably know no one." The leopard wanted to see the man's reaction to the question. He wanted to see how fast the man could think.

[Myrrine Diodorus]

Myrrine had been across the 'room' (more appropriately, the makeshift corner of the cave) from the prince, working with her herbs, when he awoke. Hearing the dreadful coughing, the dryad was up in a moment, and just as soon by his side. Pressing a cup of her hot mixture to his lips, she urged him to let nature work its magic on his body. "Lay back down, your majesty," she said in her silky, beautiful voice. It was soft as always, but commanding. They could not have the prince continue in such a dreadful manner, and if anything was going to help him, it would be rest.

Myrrine listened silently to Trufflehunter, but added her own words in the end. "It is true, sire. You were taken ill only a few hours ago. You fell in the woods and we brought you back here." She reached forward, touching her soft hand against his forehead, much as a mother would do. Her expression did not change, and she made no comment on it, only removed her hand again. "My dear prince, you must rest a few days. If you wish to lead Narnia, then Narnia wishes for you to heal."

The human suddenly standing beside them put Myrrine a bit on edge, but she tried her best to think only of the prince. Her eyes did light up as she spotted the delightful herbs the woman laid out before them. What a treasure! They would do extraordinarily good, and the whole camp, not only the prince, were bound to be much better off with such a collection. "This one," were her only words as she reached for a herb that went particularly well with the prince's current problems. Though her voice didn't show it, Myrrine was absolutely delighted. A very fine collection of herbs indeed!

{ooc: oh dear, i'm afraid this is very lacking, but it's nearly midnight and i felt that i should post. haha.}

[Adimon Tescar]

This pestiferous creature would not leave him alone!

"I've been here long enough that I think I know my way around, but thank you," Adimon replied to the animal's "offer of help".  But the leopard followed him anyway, as Adimon had guessed by now that he might.  Well, it seemed as if now was not the best time to escape. He'd simply have to wait for another chance. He would rather leave now, of course, but until he got his memory back, he wasn’t in any hurry. While he was a prisoner here, he didn’t seem to be any mortal danger.

Annoyed, and with no reason now to engage in polite small talk since this creature appeared to distrust him no matter what, Adimon was perfectly content to walk in silence. He could at least pretend he was alone that way. Without looking at the animal beside him, Adimon left the caves, not even stopping to let his eyes adjust to the sunlight before continuing towards the tent serving as the armory in this camp.

Unfortunately, the leopard broke the silence soon after they left the caves. He asked probing questions, further confirming his distrust of the camp's prisoner.  Well, at least Adimon didn’t have to think too hard to answer, as he could simply tell the truth. Or rather the partial truth, for of course he wouldn’t mention how his intentions on what to do with the arrows had changed once the prince fell unconscious. 

“I asked the armorer how I could help, and he set me to fletching these arrows,” Adimon replied, continuing to walk with his face turned straight ahead.  And in response to a remark he was sure the animal would make, he added, “And yes, I know I’m your so-called “enemy”. I simply can’t stand having nothing to do.”  Their armorer and the others he’d done tasks for could verify his statements, should this leopard be insolent enough to ask.

[Trufflehunter]

Trufflehunter watched as the female human laid down a collection of herbs on the ground before her. The dryad reached over and grabbed a particular herb off of the skin, her eyes delighted at the sight of them. What would be called a smile formed on the badger’s face as he began to examine the herbs on the skin.  He was very familiar with the herb the dryad had taken and it would certainty help the prince in his current situation.

Trufflehunter used his front paws and shifted through the herbs, taking mental notes of all that was there before thinking of an delightful tea recipe that would help warm up the prince and sooth his cough. Perhaps some of these herbs could be used to make an delightful bowl of soup.  He lifted his head and looked to the human who had brought the herbs to them. “Thank you my lady, these will be most helpful to the prince.”

[Arina Penley Carison]

When the badger referred to her as 'my lady,' Choni froze. How did he know?! she thought frantically, her eyes widening as her mind churned for something that might keep him quiet about it. It took her a moment to realize that he probably didn't mean anything by it and had just used the term because he didn't know her name. She released a breath she hadn't realized she had been holding.

"Well, we can't very well have the leader of the army incapable of leading," she replied, the corners of her mouth curving slightly. "I'm Choni, by the way."

The other woman there seemed a little apprehensive with Choni there and she wondered why. Of course, the woman was extremely beautiful and Choni suddenly doubted that she was a woman at all, but one of the wonderous creatures of Narnia. She was also the one able to identify something in the mess of herbs that could help Caspian.

"I... I'll just be over here," she said softly as she stood up and walked to the other side of the cave, a good distance away, but still able to see what was going on. She didn't want the woman to be uncomfortable on her account. She hunched down, leaning her back against the stone wall and resting her arms upon her knees.

[Senzi Naffis]

Senzi truly did not like this man. He was a horrible liar and not very polite. Yes, his words were polite, but since he was Telmarine, he was obviously not fond of any of the Narnians. 'Well, we aren't fond of you either, you pig of a man,' Senzi thought bitterly. Senzi quickly reviewed his options. It was highly unlikely that he had learned of anything that could have been of use to him. Letting him go shouldn't be to problamatic. It would probably send the entire camp into a frenzied panic, though.

"Well, then," Senzi said as he moved forward to take the arrows from the man, "I will let you continue your litte 'trip', but be warned. The next time we meet, you may not be as well as you are now." Senzi took the arrows from the man's hand with his mouth and headed back twords the camp. Senzi had many reasons to let the man go, a major one being that he smelled.

When Senzi got back to the cave, he handed the arrows off to a centaur and went to see how Caspian was doing. "Ah. I see you have decided to rejoin us, Prince. I bring news." The leopard had no intention of going easy on the prince, even if he did pass out. He still had much to learn, whether he liked it or not. Keeping everything in it's place was just one lesson. "The Telmarine captive has escaped," he said calmly, "I hope he has been kept away from meetings?"

[Adimon Tescar]

Well, that was unexpected.  The leopard suddenly decided he'd had enough, and let Adimon continue on his way -- without his arrows.  Apparently, he'd somehow figured out Adimon's plan. Adimon, while taking advantage of this turn of events by moving out of the camp as quickly as he could without attracting attention, reflected that this was just one more piece of evidence that Caspian couldn't rule his own people, let alone the country.  A good commander wouldn't let a prisoner walk off like this, nor allow his soldiers (at least one who was not also in a high position of command) to take such initiative as the leopard just had.

Not wanting to waste any more time -- for the leopard surely was not so undisciplined as to not at least alert someone as to what he had done -- Adimon decided to leave what he had determined to be his belongings behind.  No one stopped him as he walked out of the camp, to his surprise and relief.  He knew the army was somewhat disorganized and undisciplined, but he also knew that there were some people who had a better idea of what they were doing, and was glad to have avoided their notice.

Adimon's pace did not slow until he felt he was far enough to be out of sight of any sentries.  By now, he had been told enough about his past not to be surprised that he knew how far that distance should be (as well as how to move without being heard and seen). In fact, he was determinedly NOT thinking about what he did not know.  It was frustrating that his memory seemed just out of reach, but he had no leisure to think about that now. Now, he had to go find Miraz, or someone else who knew him and was not an enemy. He could think about the rest when he was safe.

((OOC: Ick, this is horrible! But at least I posted!))

[Trufflehunter]

“Pleasure to meet you Choni,” he replied, glancing away from the herb before him and towards the human that had spoken and gave her the badger equivalent of a smile. “I am Trufflehunter.”

He looked towards the human for a few moments before looking back to the herbs before him. Yes, there were many combinations of the herbs that could be used for an excellent soup. He glanced up when he heard the women speak and watched as she walked to the other side of the cave before returning his attention to the herbs.  Trufflehunter looked up a few moments later when the leopard that had also helped move the prince into the caves returned.

“Lions mane,” Trufflehunter whispered at the news of the escaped captive. “I believe he has, but I am not entirely sure.”

((OOC: ugh, crappy post))

[Swiftshadow]

“Good!” Swiftshadow nodded approval at the two members of her squad who had just hit their targets, then moved down the line.

“Lilyweather! Where in the Lion’s name are your arms? Hold them like this.” Demonstrating the correct posture, Swiftshadow began to let loose an arrow when a faun came running up with the news that the Prince had fallen unconscious from illness.  Thwack.  The centaur didn’t even stop to see her arrow hit the center of the target before breaking into a trot.

“Stormfeather, take command,” she snapped as she passed her lieutenant, then continued past the faun in the direction of the caves.  She didn’t know if her services were needed – there were, after all, one or two healers in the camp more skilled than she – but she wasn’t about to take chances.

Aslan’s mane, what had his highness done to himself?  She had known he was not well, but had hoped he would listen to her advice and the advice of others to take care.  If he’d been careful, he could have still gone about his duties, though on shorter hours. Now, he’d have to rest completely for at least a couple of days if he didn’t want to fall even more ill. They didn’t need this now! If those blasted Telmarines discovered how weak they were with the storm and now Prince Caspian’s illness, they would be sure to attack. And Swiftshadow, though she longed to face the Telmarines in battle, knew that if the Telmarines did attack, the Old Narnians would face odds even more against them then they had been at the start of the war.

Swiftshadow continued cursing the Telmarines, the storm, and the prince’s blockheadedness until she reached the caves.  Once inside, she stopped to let her eyes adjust to the darkness. When they had, she quickly located the prince. There were several people clustered around him, but she was surprised to find that most of the crowd had had the sense to stay further back out of the way.  Swiftshadow quickly evaluated those who did surround the prince. The faithful badger Trufflehunter was there, of course.  And directly leaning over the prince was a… was that really a dryad? Yes, there was no mistaking her, despite the fact that Swiftshadow had only read about dryads in books.  The centauress breathed a quick sigh of awe, but left wondering off for later.  For now, what mattered was that with a dryad here, his highness was in capable hands.

Indeed, whatever the dryad and the others had done had worked, for the prince was now conscious, thank Aslan.  Swiftshadow continued forward to make her presence known, but was prevented from speaking, for at that moment a leopard entered the caves. He greeted the prince, then announced that their captive had escaped.

What?!? The centaur’s head snapped to look at the leopard as Trufflehunter agreed.  How had this happened? The Telmarine was supposed to have been closely guarded! Maybe they should have listened to those who had wanted to kill the man immediately.  She had been on Caspian’s side then, not out of any love for their captive, but because she was uncomfortable with killing a man in such circumstances, even if he was a Telmarine.  More than that, she knew he was more use to them alive.  She doubted that Miraz cared about his private secretary personally, but still, Adimon’s position and his knowledge (if he ever regained his memory) would make recovering him a priority. Escaped, however, their former captive was more harmful to their cause than beneficial.

Body rigid with anger, Swiftshadow turned back to the prince. “Highness,” she said, her voice pitched to carry over the murmurings that had begun at the leopard’s news. “Permission to attempt recapture?”

[Damien Arrowing]

((OOC: This might not be very good, but I'm determined to rejoin you guys! ))

IC: Damien flapped his feathery wings in a steady rythem, beating hard to hoist up a beam felled by the storm. It was heavy, but Damien was strong enough to lift it twenty feet into the air and then place it carefully down in the position the centaur had indicated. Damien dropped the beam, then drifted down to the ground. His wings hung loosely from his back, and his beak was open for thirst.

"Am I needed here any longer, my friend?" he asked, looking up at the centaur and panting. He laughed heartily.

"No, no. You've helped quite enough, sir gryphon. We can carry on without you," he said, smiling. Damien could tell he was trying to be kind and didn't want him to overwork himself. But he didn't understand how much Damien wanted to help, how much he needed to help! This centaur didn't realize how strong gryphons were. Damien could work for hours more if he needed to.

Suddenly, the gryphon caught himself. He was 110 years old, it was time to stop acting like a foolish, reckless hatchling! Damien knew he needed to get a few moments of rest, and definately something to drink at the very least. Though he was still very young for a gryphon, he had long ago learned that overworking oneself was worse than taking a break and losing time. Damien nodded, and stepped away.

As he was heading to the caves for a drink, he noticed a commotion. Damien sidled past curiously, looking into the crowd. He suddenly spotted Prince Caspian at the center of the throng. Damien frowned as he figured out what had happened, based on the whisperings of the others. He moved away quietly to get a drink, listening carefully to what was going on.

Damien bent over to drink from the collected water, bringing his head down and then up like a bird to swallow. He heard the leopard join the group and make his announcement. As soon as Damien heard the words "escaped captive" he raised his head and turned around fiercely. There was no way any prisoner of the Prince's would get away!

Damien began trotting over to offer his assistance, but the female centaur got there first. He walked up to Caspian and the others, his commanding presense allowing him to get through the crowd without knocking anyone over.

"My Prince, if you give permission to this centaur, I would like to request that I accompany her. With all due respect, my skills would be very useful in such a venture," he said, hiding his eagerness to recapture the man.

[Senzi Naffis]

Senzi rolled his eyes with a sigh as the centaur and gryphon reacted to his news. They acted as if such a thing could never occur. 'Well, it has,' the leopard thought. Both of them immediately wanted to go after the Telmarine. Such hasty creatures they were. Large and hasty. A combination that Senzi knew was dangerous. He didn't doubt that they would be horribly loud in following the escaped. All they would do is yell and whoop and warn the Telmarine of their coming.

"I should mention that the captive was unguarded," Senzi said, "He was wandering around the camp with the story that he had to deliver arrows to the armorer. He walked right out of the camp without anyone, aside from myself, noticing him. What does that tell you?" The leopard mentally prepared for the onslaught of accusations that were sure to come. The more harsh of the creatures present would instantly claim that the leopard had helped the captive to escape. But Senzi had his defense ready.

"Well then. If you are going after him, I should like to go with you," Senzi continued, "Invisibility would be an asset to the cause. You'll have a hard time catching him if you just run through the forest yelling at the top of your lungs." Senzi knew he wasn't fond of running, but he was more than able to outrun a silly human.

[Arina Penley Carison]

Choni smiled at the Badger from where she sat. "It's very nice to meet you, Mr. Trufflehunter." It was a darling name, she thought. She only wished she could have met all of the people here under different circumstances. Leave it to her to stumble in on a war.

The room was suddenly much more crowded as animals and creatures came in to see about Caspian's condition and make their reports. A prisoner had escaped and now they were volunteering in mass to go after him. She had forgotten there was even a prisoner around. The girl hadn't even seen him, only heard whispers in the cave. Hadn't she heard something about him losing his memory?

"I'd like to go, too," she voiced suddenly, then almost wishing she hadn't. Not many people had taken a liking to her when she had arrived. She hadn't given them a reason to, anyway. "Permission pending, of course. I'm fair with a bow and have one. I'd like to help."

Anything was better that sewing tent canvas'. It was even better than chastising the Prince for not taking medicine when he was told. And at least it would be doing something she knew how to do. She knew how to use a bow better than her own brother.

Choni wiped a sheen of perspiration from her brow. It wasn't that warm in here, was it?

[[OOC: Gehhh.... At least it's a post. XD]]

[Damien Arrowing]

Damien thought it odd that the leopard should be so passive about a prisoner. After all, he was in the camp as an enemy. Why had he been allowed to stroll about as such? The gryphon was perplexed, but decided not to question it. It had already happened, and now the best thing to do would be to get the escapee back.

"Of course, the stealth of leopards is well-known. I'm sure you'd be a great asset to our tracking, much better than me, I think," he said, amused at his own below-average hunting skills. Damien had never been good at stealth or tracking, but if he stayed high enough in the sky he would be unnoticable, luckily. "May I know the reason for your lenience towards the escapee, my friend? I am simply curious, and I'm sure you did what you thought was best," Damien inquired to the leopard, wondering at his motives. He knew such questioning would waste valuable time, but Damien's curiousity often got the best of him.

The rust-red and iron-blue gryphon was intrigued by the ways of these Narnians. Many of them were far from what he had expected. In fact, most of them were not what he had expected. Unfortunately, they were not as organized as Damien had hoped, but that could be fixed. Some of them also seemed to have alterior motives, motives that Damien was getting the barest glimpses of. Of course, they all seemed to want what he did; freedom for the Narnians and their homeland back. But, was that all most of them wanted?

Damien simply wanted to do whatever he could to help the cause, and for now it looked like that meant going after an escaped prisoner. Back to business, he thought, amused at his own wandering thoughts.

He turned his gaze to the human woman when she requested to join in the party. Damien didn't doubt her ability, but if more continued offering their assistance, it would take too much time just to accept their help and the prisoner would make a successful escape.

"I'm sorry to interrupt, but perhaps if we wish to actually catch this man we should be departing, with your majesty's permission?" he said quietly, hoping to speed things along.

[Swiftshadow]

Swiftshadow nodded as a gryphon volunteered to come along. A gryphon would be an asset; she could track from the ground while he did the same from the sky. 

Another, less welcome voice spoke up next, however.  It was the leopard who had originally announced the prisoner’s escape.  He accused the camp of negligence, but said nothing about his own failure in letting the captive escape.  Swiftshadow bristled. Yes, the Narnian army was undisciplined and unorganized. She and others were working on remedying that, and she would make sure Glenstorm disciplined the guards and sentries who had failed their duties.  But who was this leopard to pass judgments?   He wasn’t an officer; she’d have known him if he were.  And he as much as admitted that he’d seen the prisoner escape and had done nothing to stop him.  The leopard most definitely did NOT have the authority to make that decision! That he had done so was unacceptable. That he was now rubbing it in their faces with such cockiness infuriated her even further.

It didn’t help her mood when he asserted that he’d go with them, and accused them of not knowing how to track someone down.   She’d been training to fight the Telmarines her entire life! She would hardly go “run around the forest yelling at the top of her lungs”. 

“I hardly need your help,” she hissed at the leopard.  Knowing she’d do something she’d regret later if she stayed here, she then turned to the prince.  “Begging your pardon, your highness, but we need to leave now or it will be too late.” 

If the prince had ordered her not to follow their captive, she would have obeyed.  She would have argued, perhaps, but in the end she always followed the orders of a superior officer who had earned her respect.  But he had yet to say anything, and therefore, she decided that she was in the right in chasing the Telmarine.  If she had been the one to see him leave rather than the leopard, after all, she would have left immediately without waiting for any orders.

With that decided, she turned and quickly made her way to the opening of the cave, the crowd opening up for her to avoid being trampled.  She heard a female voice and then the gryphon speak up behind her, but she paid no attention to what they said. If they were going to accompany her, they could follow.  If they didn’t, it was no loss. She hardly needed help to find and capture a single two-legger.

[Prince Caspian]

There was so much going on around him that Caspian was having a hard time keeping up. There was discussion of herbs that someone had brought to aid him – he glanced in their direction, hearing but not really listening. What did he know of such things anyway? There was a great internal struggle; Caspian wanted to get up and put himself to use but he doubted he really had the strength to do so. Still, he didn’t feel like he ought to just sit there… but if he got up, surely someone would accuse him of being foolish – he seemed to be getting that a lot -- and he sure he was already losing whatever respect he might have had from his little army. He really didn’t need to make things any worse.

Settling back, he listened to the conversations going on around him, deciding that he needed to conserve his energy. Something he should have done earlier – except he couldn’t justify lounging around when his subjects had been ill. He hadn’t meant to catch whatever it was that had been going around, but it had obviously happened. Else he just over worked himself. He didn’t really know.

The next thing he knew, there were talking about an escaped captive. Captive? Escaped? It took him a moment to place just who they were talking about and when he did he brought his hand to his face. Things were seriously falling apart – and that probably wouldn’t have changed even if he hadn’t lost consciousness. Still, he felt like he was to blame for this – to blame for all the hardships they’d endured. But of course he couldn’t have prevented the storm, or their need to seek shelter in the tunnels… he knew it was foolish to blame himself for anything more than overworking his body but he couldn’t help it.

Permission was sought to attempt to recapture the captive and Caspian slowly pulled himself to sitting, glancing around with a rather dazed expression – though he tried not to show his confusion, his weakness, and the constant tossing of his stomach. He felt like he could sleep for days and still not feel as good as he used to in Miraz’s castle. His whole body was fatigued, his muscles tense and sore. He had never worked so hard in his life, in the days leading up to when he passed out. And he wasn’t even working the hardest among the Narnians. But he was doing all that he could – and then some, it seemed – and it appeared that he just wasn’t cut out for all of this.

But still he needed to try.

He felt a bout of dizziness hit again and he shut his eyes to try and steady himself. In the moments he was trying to regain his control, it appeared that a whole group had assembled and were asking permission to follow the centaur on her quest to recapture Adimon. His better judgement told him to say ‘no’, that it was a waste of time and there were more productive things to be doing. But for the life of him, he couldn’t think of what those “more productive” things might be. He wasn’t ready to argue, he was too ill.

“Yes, attempt recapture,” he agreed, but really what he said made no difference. The centaur was already off and being followed. He sighed and stared blankly ahead, wondering what else could possibly go wrong. He was anxious to be up and working again but he certainly wasn’t physically ready to get back to work. But perhaps there were other things he could do…

“Please bring me my charts,” he instructed to whomever was willing to comply. “I’ll do whatever I can from here.” He wasn’t foolish enough to try and pull himself to his feet; Caspian was pretty sure he would fall over after a few steps. He slid over, leaning his head against the wall of the tunnel where they’d brought him.

He had given up on the horn – it didn’t seem to be doing anything for them. How much longer could they wait?

No, Caspian would have to take things into his own, unsuited, hands.

{{ooc: sorry it took so long, and it’s so sucky guys. I have to get back into the Caspian posting mojo. XD}}

[Trufflehunter]

The badger watched as Caspian pulled himself up, his paws open and ready to help him if needed. The boy looked, well, horrible. He was in need of food and rest and here he was sitting up, watching the conversation about the captive. Trufflehunter set a paw on the boy’s arm as he swayed where he sat, his eyes closed as he tried to steady himself. Once he was steady, Trufflehunter removed his paw.

Trufflehunter watched the centaur cantor off without permission from Caspian, the others that had been asking about the captives recapture following her after getting permission. Trufflehunter sighed and shook his head.  First the storm, followed by Caspian falling ill, and then tempers on high in the group going after the escaped prisoner. Aslan help us, he thought as he looked back to the boy before him.

Caspian had slid himself over so that he now rested against the wall, asking for his charts. Trufflehunter patted the boy’s knee and gave him a smile. “I will be back soon, you highness,” he said softly. “I shall go make some soup. It should help warm you up and get something in your stomach.”

Patting his knee once more, Trufflehunter gathered the herbs he wanted for the soup and began to head out of the caves in search of a pot of water and a fire to boil it over.