Too Many Sunsets (Prince Caspian)

Noble Traditions

Outside the Kings and Queens join Caspian overlooking the field. Telmarine soldiers filtered out of the woods in strict formation. Their silver armour covered all but their eyes and their shields created an impenatrable barrier. Horses pull the massive catapults from in between the ranks. They halt in the field showing off their might in all its glory. 

Generals march forward on horseback and take their positions in front of their infantry. Behind them Miraz moves to the front in gold plated armour. He halts at the head of the Telmarine army. 

In the heart of Aslan's How the Narnians gathered to discuss their battle plan.

"Cakes and kettledrums. That's your next big plan? Sending a little girl into the darkest parts of the forest? Alone?" Trumpkin moves towards Lucy.

"It's our only chance", Peter said.

"And she won't be alone", Susan states.

Trumpkin looks at Lucy sadly, "haven't enough of us died already?"

"Nikabrik was my friend too, but he lost hope. Queen Lucy hasn't, and neither have I", Trufflehunter speaks softly.

Reepicheep presents his sword, "For Aslan".

Peter looks at him, to Red Feather and to Lucy. The nod in agreement.

"Then I'm going with you", Trumpkin said determined.

"No, we need you here".

"We have to hold them off until Susan and Lucy get back". 

"If I may", the group look at Caspia, "Miraz may be a tyrant and a murderer, but as King he is still subject to the traditions and expectations of his people. There is one in particular that may buy us some time". 

Edmund, Glenstorm and a giant make their way across the field with white flowers. Miraz and Glozelle watch them approach.

"Perhaps they intend to surrender", Glozelle suggested.

"No, they are much too noble for that". 

The Narnians enter the enemy camp and Edmund speaks to the Telmarine council. 

"I, Peter, by the gift of Aslan, by election and by conquest, High King of Narnia, Lord of Cair Paravel and Emperor of the Lone Islands, in order to prevent the abominable effusion of blood, do hereby challenge the usurper Miraz to single combat upon the field of battle. The fight shall be to the death. The reward shall be total surrender". 

Edmund lowers the scroll and waits for Miraz's response.

"Tell me, Prince Edmund–"

"King".

"Pardon me?"

"It's King Edmund, actually. Just King though. Peter's the High King. I know it's confusing".

Miraz fidgets and glances at his council. "Why would we risk such a proposal when our armies could wipe you out by nightfall?"

"Haven't you already underestimated our numbers? I mean, only a week ago, Narnians were extinct".

"And so you will be again". 

"Well then, you should have little to fear".

Miraz lets our a hearty laugh. "This is not a question of bravery".

"So you're bravely refusing to fight a swordsman half your age?"

Miraz leans forward, "I didn't say I refused".