No Matter What - Edmund Pevensie X Reader

Chapter 12 - The Last Goodbye

"So what was it like? When Aslan changed you back?" Edmund asked Eustace.
Edmund, Y/N, Lucy, Caspian, Eustace and Reepicheep were on a boat to Aslan's Country. Edmund and Caspian were rowing it, the oars pushing through the water lilies that covered the water's surface entirely.
"No matter how hard I tried, I just couldn't do it myself," replied Eustace, "Then He came towards me. It sort of hurt, but it was a good pain. You know, like when you pull a thorn from your foot. Being a dragon wasn't all bad. I mean, I think I was a better dragon than I was a boy really. I'm so sorry for being such a sop."

"That's okay, Eustace. I know someone else who was that way the first time he came to Narnia," said Y/N.
"It's true," chuckled Edmund, "In fact, you haven't been as bad as I was on my first trip to Narnia. You were only an ass, but I was a traitor."
"But that's what Aslan does," continued Y/N, after pausing for a moment, "He sees those not-so-good parts of us and He teaches us to change them. He teaches us to believe in ourselves. To believe in Him. But, yeah, for what it's worth, you were a pretty cool dragon."
The others laughed a bit, and Y/N shifted to sit next to Edmund.

"If I was such a grumpy old bag when we first came to Narnia, as you say," said Edmund, "Why'd you follow me to the castle of a creepy witch?"
"I just didn't want you to face her alone. There was no way you would be a match for her! I mean, the first thing you asked her for when we got there was turkish delight."
"Ok, that part's fair, but I'm still not buying it."
"Well, why do you think I followed you?"
"I think you followed me 'cause you thought I was cute."
Y/N just giggled at that and kissed Edmund on the cheek.

"My friends, we have arrived," announced Reepicheep.
The others turned around to see a golden, sandy shore. Upon the shore stood a great wave, holding itself upright at a total standstill. Edmund and Caspian docked the boat, while the others got out and walked closer to the large wave.

"Aslan," said Eustace suddenly, and the others whirled around to find that Aslan was indeed standing behind them, looking as glorious as ever.
"Welcome, children. You have done well," He said, "Very well indeed. You have come far, and now your journey is at its end."
Y/N sighed. She knew that Aslan's words meant two things.

"Is this your country?" asked Lucy.
"No, my country lies beyond," the Great Lion answered, looking towards the great wave.
"Is my father in your country?" Caspian said softly.
"You can only find that out for yourself, my son," replied Aslan, "But you should know that if you continue, there is no return."

Caspian walked up to the wave, taking large strides. He put his hand out to touch the water, before turning around, his eyes brimmed with tears.
"You're not going?" asked Edmund.
"I can't imagine my father would be very proud that I gave up what he died for," Caspian responded, "I've spent too long wanting what was taken from me and not what was given. I was given a kingdom. People."
Caspian turned to Aslan and continued, "I promise to be a better king."
"You already are," Aslan's deep voice spoke.

Reepicheep cleared his throat and moved forward towards Aslan.
"Your Eminence," he said, bowing, "ever since I can remember, I have dreamt of seeing your country. I've had many great adventures in this world, but nothing has dampened that yearning. I know I am hardly worthy, but with your permission, I would lay down my sword for the joy of seeing your country with my own eyes."

"My country was made for noble hearts such as yours, no matter how small their bearers be."
"Your Majesty," said Reepicheep, bowing down low once more.
"No one could be more deserving," said Caspian.
"Well, I-"
"It's true," Edmund added, beaming and nodding at Reepicheep.

Y/N and Lucy stepped forward and kneeled down in front of Reepicheep.
"It is a pleasure to have served with you, Your Valorous Majesty," Reepicheep said to Y/N, bowing his head.
"The pleasure is all mine, my noble Reepicheep," Y/N replied, gently taking his paw and shaking it.