Trials of Faith

Chapter XI

"Sorry to interrupt." says the voice of Professor Digory Kirke. "I regret I couldn't attend last night's festivities. I was rather busy."

"It's fine." Mrs. Pevensie assures the old Professor. "Do sit down and join us now, though." Peter quickly stands and offers his chair, seeing that there are no more, and makes to sit by Edmund's feet on the floor.

"No, thank you, Peter. I was actually hoping you children could visit my study. Mrs. Macready and I have a gift for you."

"Of course, sir." Peter speaks for them all. "We'd be delighted to."

Professor Kirke smiles, "Excellent. Follow me, then."

The children follow him out of the room and into his study.

"Make yourselves comfortable." The Professor gestures to the four armchairs around the room.

"Thank you, Professor." Peter says.

"What do you suppose he's gotten us?" Edmund whispers.

"Maybe something to do with Narnia!" Lucy whispers back.

The Professor sits down with a large and dusty book, which he gives to Peter.

Peter uses his sleeve to dust off the cover.

The Adventures of Digory Kirke and Polly Plummer

"What's this?" Edmund inquires.

"This is my adventure in Narnia." The Professors says grandly. "I wrote this immediately after my return."

"Thank you so much, sir!" Susan beams. "We can't wait to read it!"

"It is yours." Professor Digory says. "I have no need of it."

"Are you sure?" Peter asks.

"Son, I am old and I know of no one else who would believe in such a strange tale. It is yours." He says again.

"Thank you, again, sir. We are honoured." Lucy smiles.

"Well, your mother will be wondering where you are. Be off with you!" He says, and makes a shooing motion.

"Will do, Professor." Edmund laughs.

"Merry Christmas!" Susan adds.

"And a jolly new year to all!" Professor Kirke exclaims.

--

"Where is the boy's representation?" Judge Hendrix inquires.

Edmund suddenly walks into the courthouse in a most dapper suit. "Right here, sir. I will be representing Mr. Peter Pevensie, your honour."

"Objection!" exclaims the Schultz family attorney. "Not only is this a conflict of interest, but this young man is eleven years of age. He hasn't graduated high school, let alone earned a law degree."

"I see no conflict of interest." Judge Hendrix says. "Besides, this is an informal hearing. I'll allow it."

Edmund smiles at Peter from across the courthouse. Peter gives him a relieved smile in return. He had not known Edmund would be representing him, but he was glad he was.

Edmund listens attentively to the prosecutor ramble on and on, keeping an ear out for any lies or incorrectly answered questions, anything to help Peter's case. 'Just like Forensics and Debate.' Edmund tells himself. 'No, just like Narnia.'

"Does the defense have any questions for Lord Schultz?" Hendrix asks.

"I thought you'd never ask." Edmund says with a cocky smile on his face.