The Honest and The Brave // Narnia

Chapter 15

The forest looks truly different now that the snow has completely disappeared - it's almost as if it never existed at all. The sky is a stunning shade of blue, something that was never seen in England, whilst the grass and tree leaves are a gorgeous green that stand out vibrantly. Even the flowers are beautiful , despite their scattered placing and small appearance. As I admire a blue bird perched amongst a clump daisies, I suddenly realise the forest is opening up to a large grassy field that is covered with dozens of red and gold tents. There are a few flags that I can see embedded with a lions head, making it obvious that our newly found presents have been blessed with the crest of Narnia. I smile at this before admiring a lonesome cherry blossom tree sitting on the edge of the field. As a soft breeze carries past, my eyes widen as the petals begin to swirl around the trunk of the tree before forming a woman whom has a blinding smile. This must be a dryad spirit, I've only ever seen one in picture form. I wave at her presence, to which she responds with an enthusiastic giggle and wave. I continue to admire her, watching with glee as she dances in the breeze before I am tugged away with slight force. I yelp in surprise before glancing to my side to see Lucy dragging me after our group - which is slowly making its way closer to the camp in a hurry. I send a smile over my shoulder to the dryad before ushering after everyone - just as a loud horn echoes out. My gaze flitters to the hill that overlooks the camp, only to stare in awe at the creature blowing the horn. With a torso like a man but the lower half like a horse, I admire the centaur from down below. They are creatures that are very proud, and are incredible fighters which live in the forest to protect the land from invaders. I grin with glee at the centaur, knowing he cannot be the only one in this camp before gazing back upon the approach grounds with slight anticipation.

~

The tents are much larger up close, waving around in the breeze and prying down on me as I follow Andrew down the centre of the camp. Yet the tents aren't the biggest thing I can see, for some of the centaurs reach heights I could only dream of. Scattered around them are many fauns, as well as friendly looking dwarves followed by different kinds of animals. All of which are staring at us all with wide eyes, almost as if we're the most abnormal thing they've ever seen. As I gaze around in awe, I suddenly hear Susan let out a soft hum.

"Why are they all staring at us?"

I walk in step with my brother, glancing past him to see Susan crossing her arms over her chest as though embarrassed by her appearance. I roll my eyes and focus my attention on the walk ahead just as Lucy's voice reaches my ears.

"Maybe they think you look funny.

I snort loudly, quickly trying to hide it behind a cough as I hear her groan in annoyance - Peter and Andrew's chuckles blending in with the noise. I gaze out of the corner of my eye and send Lucy an amused gaze before taking a deep breath - the largest tent of them all coming into view. It's placed at the end of camp, atop a raised ledge of land that over looks the warriors that are the Narnians. Our small group come to a stop, and I realise that every creature has followed us - now surrounding us like a swarm of innocent bees. Gulping, I focus on the male centaur that is practically standing guard at the tent opening - his gaze hard as he looks us up and down, almost judging whether we're fit enough to fight. His long dark hair is hidden by a silver helmet, matching his armour that covers his torso. I bite my lip in anticipation as Peter unsheathes his sword and lifts it above his own head.

"We have come to see Aslan."

His voice is shaky, as expected, yet the centaur nods slowly before gesturing toward the tent in silence. It's a little eerie, yet the atmosphere seems calm and free. Out of the corner of my eye I notice the centaur bow down, the crowd following his lead. As they do, I realise we are in fact the only ones standing - not a good first impression. Still, as the tent begins to open, I cannot bring myself to kneel for the sight is truly amazing. Emerging from the tent is a majestic lion, his golden fur shimmering in the sunlight and a friendly glint dancing in his eyes. This is Aslan, and the happy feeling that was once felt in the beaver's dam arises again - so much so that I kneel unconsciously. Suddenly, an unknown voice rings out.