CP   It would be...

CP   World peace. no question.

That answer didn't quite surprise you. His earnestness, however, did.

CP   Some kind of unity among people, across borders - once and for all.

CP   The end of meaningless violence.

CP   That's all I could ask for.

There's a pause, almost as if he's waiting for you to laugh, to point out how impossible that would be. To his credit, you did consider it for a second. But you reward his honesty with your own.

RG   That sounds wonderful.

He looks at you with disbelief, then... relief.

CP   Am I hearing that right?

CP   You know, if there are no wars, you’re kind of out of the job.

You sigh. Can't he have a conversation without that needless levity?

RG   I’m more than grand military battles, Caspian.

RG   Despite how it may seem, my life's purpose isn't to thrive in constant war.

CP   No way.

RG   It's difficult to grasp, I know.

RG   But, I'm being completely sincere.

RG   In fact, I’d be more than happy if our greatest conflicts were… localized.

RG   That would allow me to focus more on the well-being on my people.

He whistles.

CP   Predictable yet noble of you, empress.

CP   Did you have that one lined up? you practiced, didn't you?

RG   I know who I am and what my goals are.

You flip your hair for effect.

RG   No practice necessary.

He pretends to be blown away, for effect.

CP   I should've expected that, then.

CP   It's your turn, by the way.

CP   Whenever you're ready.

A split-second of hesitation. No normal person would be able to detect it. But he is far from normal.

RG   On one condition.

He raises an eyebrow but, dutifully, he waits.

RG   In exchange for my honesty, I want no snide commentary from you.

A pause. Then, he bursts into laughter.

CP   Phah hah! seriously?

RG   What? It's a perfectly reasonable ask.

CP   No, I get it.

CP   It's just - I thought my honesty was the one in exchange.

CP   I’ve already confessed mine, after all.

RG   ...

He shrugs, then turns it into an elaborate stretch.

CP   But out of my own generosity, I’ll hold back any remarks.

CP   Is that good enough?

You exhale.

RG   ...it's adequate.

You think over the prompt again. And you can easily give him something vague, something rehearsed. Yet, the more you consider it, the more you feel compelled to explore what you're really thinking. And he's right - he's already given his honest answer. It's only fair you give yours.

RG   I suppose it’s less about what I want, but more who I want to be.

RG   Someone so powerful, they can free those who are trapped. Who are helpless.

RG   Someone who defies others’ control - and can change history for the better.

RG   Who can bear all the responsibility of the world.

CP   Hmm.

CP   So, if you had the chance, you'd rule the world?

Caspian's expression is strangely captivated. You don't let it deter your words.

RG   If it lead to the change that was needed?

RG   Yes.

RG   I would gladly rule the world if it meant a better one, for everyone.

CP   ...

You smile, wistful.

RG   It's unfortunate.

CP   What is?

RG   My true desire.

RG   It must be disappointing, hearing that from me.

RG   Since yours seems at odds with mine.

CP   Hmm. is it?

He tilts his head thoughtfully.

CP   I mean, yes, if it was anyone else, I’d be a little worried hearing all this power talk.

CP   That’s kind of something I’d like to avoid.

CP   But… I’m sure both of our wishes can co-exist.

He looks outwards.

CP   After all, a world ruled by Regina Pretorius -

CP   That could be like a peaceful one, alright.