They were, and they wanted to hold onto the belief and the wonder. They couldn't understand how painful it was for me, being forced to give it all up, and being told by Aslan I'd never again return.
Magic and various creatures seem to be commonplace in Preya, so I believe so.
I have heard that story, yes. Several years ago, my brothers became quite interested in the Arthurian legends, and drew me into studying them as well, so I'm familiar with them, which makes it strange to know that I'm going to be marrying King Arthur himself this Spring.