Caspian's glance tracks over to where Reepicheep, on the bar, appears to be animatedly relating some tale of adventure, and his mouth softens, crooks into a rueful smile. "I would trust Reepicheep with my life," he says. "And have, in the past. And he'd do anything for Susan, without question or hesitation. But this is nothing he can do battle with; not with sword, or even honorable words."

He shakes his head. "But he helped her today, too. If Susan wishes him there, I'd bring him with a will. You'll never find a more loyal friend or a more valiant knight."