Rising with the Dawn

Second Fiddle

The closer to the land the more concerned Demetria became, it was too quiet, too still and abandoned. Not a soul was in sight. Yet it wasn't only what awaited them on shore that had her worried, but Edmund. He had been told -very bluntly- that Caspian was in charge, and the hurt and disappointed expression on his face had her worried. As they waited for the longboats to be prepared and the last few items to be checked off the to-do list before they went ashore, Demetria asked him about it.

"Are you alright?" She whispered it as his fingers threaded through hers. His smile was tight as he looked down at her, only proving what she believed.

"Why wouldn't I be?" He questioned, forehead creasing with the question. Demetria sighed softly. Why was he avoiding the question?

"Don't pretend what Drinian said didn't get to you." She said softly, shuffling closer to him to give a passing sailor more room. "I know you better than that."

"I'm fine." Edmund's tone was frustrated. "I've played second fiddle most of my life, first to Peter, now to Caspian. I guess, some part of me, had been hoping things would be different this time." Demetria softened slightly. She knew what that was like, only difference was, she was alright with that. There was plenty she could do within her spot in life.

"I understand." She said softly, "But I also understand that you will never be second to any other person in my heart, and that even if you're not the one giving the orders, plenty of people respect you and will do plenty to help you. Work with what you have in your hands Ed and be content with it. If you reach to grab more, you're bound to drop somethings." Edmund seemed to think that over, nodding after a few moments of silence.

"Alright," He said, "I understand." He chuckled softly. "How is it you are so wise?"

"I had plenty of time to think, growing up in a jail." She said, referring to how her father, Miraz, had her imprisoned when she was ten for not having been born a boy. "Even with the sometimes less than pleasant company I had they would say something thoughtful now and then. Everybody has something to teach another, even if it isn't always good." What she failed to mention how often she spoke with Aslan, learning more than she would have ever thought possible.

Edmund smiled down at her, giving her hand a small squeeze. "That's good. Now come on, or they'll leave without us."