News of Elizabeth and Aslan's engagement traveled swiftly across Narnia, reaching every corner of the land. The announcement brought an outpouring of joy and celebration. Citizens of every species—from centaurs to fauns, talking animals to tree spirits—cheered for their beloved Empress and Emperor. Songs were composed, dances performed, and tales of their love retold in every town square and meadow.

At Cair Paravel, the castle was abuzz with activity. In the royal chambers, Elizabeth sat surrounded by Lucy, Susan, Mrs. Beaver, and the ever-enthusiastic Bodhi the Weasel. The group worked tirelessly to brainstorm ideas for the wedding, their chatter filling the air.

Lucy eagerly sketched designs for the wedding dress, her imagination running wild. "It should be something that sparkles, like the stars! Maybe with flowing silk and tiny beads to look like water droplets," she suggested.

Susan, ever practical, leaned over to inspect Lucy's sketches. "That's a beautiful idea, but we'll also need to consider the season and the location. Will it be indoors or outdoors?"

Elizabeth smiled warmly, enjoying their enthusiasm. "I love the idea of an outdoor ceremony under the open sky. Narnia's beauty should be part of our special day."

Mrs. Beaver nodded approvingly. "Wise choice, my dear. A ceremony by the Great Waterfall could be magical. The sound of the cascading water would be a lovely backdrop."

Bodhi the Weasel, nibbling on a nut, chimed in with excitement. "And don't forget the music! Perhaps we can have a choir of birds and fauns with flutes. Oh, and I can help choreograph a dance for the woodland creatures!"

The group laughed, Elizabeth joining in. "That sounds wonderful, Bodhi," she said, her heart swelling with gratitude for the love and support around her.

Meanwhile, Aslan was immersed in royal duties alongside Peter, Edmund, and Oreius. The four reviewed reports of Narnia's recovery after the war, ensuring the kingdom's needs were met.

Peter, glancing at Aslan, couldn't help but grin. "You know, Aslan, the girls, and Bodhi are probably turning the castle upside down with wedding preparations. Aren't you curious about what they're planning?"

Aslan chuckled, his voice resonating with warmth. "Whatever Elizabeth desires will be perfect. This day is as much for her as it is for me. My only wish is to see her happy."

Edmund smirked. "That's a good answer. Safe, too."

Oreius, standing stoically nearby, added, "A wise response, my lord. Let the ladies and Bodhi have their fun. It will ensure the day is extraordinary."

As the days passed, the castle remained a hive of activity. Plans began to take shape, from the design of Elizabeth's gown to the feast menu. Each moment brought the kingdom closer to what promised a day of unparalleled joy—a union of love that would forever be etched in the history of Narnia.

The long-awaited day had arrived. Narnia woke up to skies of radiant blue, the air alive with the anticipation of the grand wedding between Aslan, the Emperor of Narnia, and Elizabeth, the woman who had captured his heart. Representatives and rulers from neighboring kingdoms gathered, bringing gifts and blessings to the royal couple. Cair Paravel was transformed into a haven of beauty, with flowers of every hue adorning the halls, their fragrances mingling with the salty sea breeze.

Elizabeth, in a room filled with laughter and joy, prepared for her moment. Lucy, Susan, and Mrs. Beaver were bustling around her, adjusting her gown and fixing her hair. Her dress, designed by Narnian artisans, was a flowing masterpiece of silk and lace, the color of moonlight, with delicate embroidery that shimmered like stars.

Lucy held Elizabeth's hand. "You look so beautiful, Elizabeth. Aslan won't be able to take his eyes off you."

Elizabeth smiled, her heart racing. "Thank you, Lucy. I feel... ready. Nervous, but ready."

Meanwhile, Aslan stood surrounded by Peter, Edmund, and Oreius. His bachelor party the previous night had been filled with friendship and laughter, but today, his focus was solely on Elizabeth. Dressed in regal attire—silver armor with gold accents and a flowing crimson cape—he exuded a majestic presence.

Peter placed a hand on Aslan's shoulder. "You're a lucky man, Aslan. But I think we all know Elizabeth is lucky, too."

Aslan's golden eyes softened. "She is my heart, Peter. Today, I vow to cherish her for all eternity."

The wedding was set on the shores of the Great Eastern Ocean, where the sea met the sky on a perfect horizon. A long, petal-strewn aisle led to an arch woven with golden vines and adorned with flowers. Tumnus and Mr. Beaver stood at the altar, their expressions mixing pride and emotion.

A gorgeous melody began to play, performed by a choir of Narnian creatures and fauns with their flutes. The soft notes carried over the gathered crowd, silencing whispers as all eyes turned to the bride.

Elizabeth appeared at the entrance, her arm linked with Peter's. Her beauty was otherworldly, and every step she took felt like a heartbeat in time. Walking her down the aisle, Peter held his head high with pride.

Aslan stood at the altar, his gaze locked on Elizabeth. Memories flooded their minds—their first meeting, battles fought side by side, the pain of separation, and the joy of reunion. His heart swelled with love and awe.

When Elizabeth reached the altar, Peter placed her hand in Aslan's, whispering, "Take care of her." Aslan nodded solemnly, his grip on Elizabeth's hand firm and comforting.

Tumnus and Mr. Beaver began the ceremony, their words heartfelt and joyous. The vows were spoken, and both Aslan and Elizabeth promised to honor, love, and protect each other as rulers of Narnia.

When the moment came, Aslan and Elizabeth looked deeply into each other's eyes. Time seemed to stand still as they said, "I do."

Aslan, overwhelmed with emotion, gently cupped Elizabeth's face as he leaned in for their first kiss as husband and wife. The crowd erupted in cheers as their lips met, the kiss sealing their union with a warmth that everyone could feel.

The rest of the day was filled with joyous festivities.

As the sun dipped low over the horizon, painting the ocean with hues of gold and crimson, the ceremony continued with heartfelt speeches from Elizabeth and Aslan's closest loved ones. The soft murmur of waves and the faint rustle of wind through the flowers served as the perfect backdrop.

Peter stepped forward first, standing tall and composed. He glanced at Aslan and Elizabeth, his voice steady and warm.

"Elizabeth, you've always been the one who looked out for us, the one who carried us through the darkest days with your strength and courage. And Aslan, you've been our guide, protector, and now...our brother. Together, the two of you are not just rulers but the heart of Narnia. May your love shine as brightly as the sun over our lands."

Susan followed, elegant and poised, her voice soft yet full of emotion.

"Elizabeth, you're not just my sister but my greatest inspiration. You've always been fearless and full of grace. And Aslan, you've taught us all the meaning of sacrifice and love. Watching you both is like witnessing a storybook come to life, one where the heroes don't win—they thrive. May your union bring peace and happiness to all blessed to know you."

Edmund, his usual seriousness softened by emotion, stepped up next.

"Elizabeth, you've always kept me grounded, even when I didn't deserve it. And Aslan, well, you saved me—not just on the battlefield, but in my heart. Together, you're an unstoppable force, and I know Narnia will flourish under your care. To the both of you, I can only say thank you—for everything."

Lucy approached last, her eyes glistening with happy tears.

"Elizabeth, I've always looked up to you—not just as a sister, but as a shining example of what it means to love and be loved. And Aslan, you've taught me that true strength lies in kindness. Seeing the two of you together fills me with much hope for the future. I know that your love will carry us through no matter what comes."

Tumnus, holding a parchment that trembled slightly in his hands, stood beside Oreius, who maintained his dignified stance.

Tumnus began, his voice light but sincere. "Elizabeth, the day we met, I saw someone destined for greatness. And Aslan, you've always been the beacon we all follow. Together, you've brought a joy to Narnia that will never fade."

Oreius nodded and added, his voice deep and steady, "I have fought beside you both, and I would do so again without hesitation. Your union is a celebration for Narnia and a promise of strength and unity for generations to come."

As the final speech concluded, the evening transitioned to the reception. Music filled the air, and Aslan extended a hand to Elizabeth, his golden eyes filled with love.

"May I have this dance, my Empress?" he asked, his voice rich and gentle.

Elizabeth, her heart fluttering, placed her hand in his. "Always."

The two stepped onto the dance floor, and the world seemed to hold its breath. They moved with a grace that defied words, their steps ideally in sync, their connection undeniable. Elizabeth's gown swirled around her like moonlight, and Aslan's commanding presence complemented her elegance.

As they danced, Aslan leaned close, his voice low and affectionate.

"You are the light of my life, heart, and everything," he whispered. "I never imagined I could love someone as deeply as I love you."

Elizabeth blushed, her smile radiant. "And you, Aslan, are my home. My safe place. I've never felt more complete than I do right now."

The crowd watched in awe, captivated by the beauty and love radiating from the pair. Aslan continued to murmur tender words to Elizabeth, each making her cheeks pinker and her smile brighter.

At that moment, it was as if the entire world had faded away, leaving only the two of them—a love story destined to be remembered for all eternity.

As the celebration drew close, Aslan stood beside Elizabeth, his golden eyes filled with warmth and devotion. With the soft glow of the moon casting a magical light over the festivities, he leaned close to her and whispered, "Come with me, my love. There's something I wish to show you."

Curious but trusting, Elizabeth took his hand, allowing him to guide her away from the rejoicing crowd. They walked together, leaving Cair Paravel behind, as the night air grew cooler and the stars above seemed to shimmer brighter. Aslan led her to an open field, where a shimmering portal formed before them, glowing faintly with the colors of dawn.

"This," Aslan said, his voice low and respectful, "is our home. A place of peace, beauty, and love, built for us to share for all time."

Stepping through the portal together, they emerged into a breathtaking landscape. A magnificent castle stood at the heart of Narnia, surrounded by endless meadows of golden grass and vibrant wildflowers. Its towers seemed to touch the heavens, their spires glistening as if kissed by sunlight even in the night. The structure radiated a soft, ethereal light, and the surrounding clouds floated protectively around it, shimmering with enchantment.

Elizabeth gasped, her hand flying to her mouth. "Aslan, it's... it's beyond words. It's beautiful."

Aslan smiled gently. "This is Aslan's Country—a place where the air is always sweet, the skies always clear, and the love within it eternal. It's a home for us and all who seek peace and belong to this land's heart. And now, it is yours as well."

Hand in hand, they walked through the grand gates of the castle, which opened silently as though welcoming them home. Inside, the halls gleamed with warmth, adorned with elegant tapestries depicting moments of Narnian history and their own love story. A grand staircase led to spacious chambers, while expansive balconies overlooked the serene beauty of the kingdom below.

Elizabeth turned to Aslan, her eyes brimming with tears of joy. "This is everything I could have ever dreamed of... and more. Thank you, my love."

Aslan stepped closer, his voice a soft rumble. "You deserve a place as extraordinary as your heart, Elizabeth. Here, we will begin the next chapter of our journey—together."

They shared a tender embrace and kiss, their love shining as brightly as the enchanted clouds surrounding their castle. That night, in the heart of Aslan's Country, they began their life together, knowing their bond would forever stand as a beacon of love and hope for Narnia.

Ten years had passed since Elizabeth and Aslan's grand union. The years had been filled with triumphs and challenges—alliances forged, wars fought, and historical moments that shaped Narnia and its neighboring lands. Through it all, Elizabeth had remained a reliable Empress, her heart unwaveringly devoted to her people and her beloved Aslan.

Now thirty, Elizabeth had a glow about her that seemed to brighten the very halls of Cair Paravel as she walked through its familiar corridors. A secret warmed her heart—one that she had kept close, waiting for the perfect moment to share. With Aslan away attending to royal matters, Elizabeth decided it was time to tell her siblings first.

She found them together in the great hall, where sunlight streamed through stained glass windows, casting vibrant colors across the polished stone floor. Peter, now a strong and wise leader at twenty-four, sat discussing plans with Edmund, who had become a just and clever counselor at twenty. Susan, now twenty-two, was reviewing correspondence with her characteristic grace while Lucy, radiant at eighteen, practiced a new melody on her harp.

Elizabeth paused in the doorway, a smile on her lips as she watched her siblings. It felt like yesterday they were children, discovering the wonders of Narnia for the first time. She cleared her throat gently, drawing their attention.

"Lizzie!" Lucy exclaimed, setting her harp aside and running to embrace her. "You guys, it's Lizzie. Oh, you've been away too long. We did see you for the holidays, but that was still a year ago."

Peter and Edmund looked up with matching smiles, and Susan rose gracefully from her seat. "It's good to see you, Elizabeth," Peter said warmly. "You look... radiant."

Elizabeth laughed softly, her hand brushing against her abdomen unconsciously. "I've missed you all so much. I came with some wonderful news I wish to share with you. Aslan doesn't know it yet."

Her siblings exchanged curious glances as they gathered around her. Taking a deep breath, Elizabeth clasped her hands together, her eyes sparkling. "Amid all the love and challenges we've faced, Aslan and I have been blessed beyond measure. I am with child."

The room fell silent momentarily as the weight of her words settled in. Then, joy erupted like a tidal wave. Lucy's eyes filled with happy tears as she hugged Elizabeth tightly. Susan covered her mouth with her hands, her own tears spilling over. Peter stepped forward, his expression of awe and pride, while Edmund's smile stretched ear to ear.

"A little prince or princess of Narnia?" Peter said, his voice thick with emotion. "Elizabeth, this is incredible news."

"We're going to be aunts and uncles!" Lucy exclaimed, practically bouncing with excitement.

Susan took Elizabeth's hands, her gaze warm and sisterly. "You've always been an incredible maternal figure to us, and now you'll be an incredible mother to your child. I couldn't be happier for you."

Edmund chuckled. "Let's hope they have your patience, Elizabeth, and not Aslan's temper."

The siblings shared a laugh, the moment's joy enveloping them like a warm embrace. As they celebrated, Elizabeth's heart swelled with gratitude. Soon, she would tell Aslan, but for now, sharing this joy with her siblings was the perfect beginning to the next chapter of their lives.

The thrill of the hunt echoed through the forest as Elizabeth and her siblings pursued the unattainable white stag. Laughter and friendship filled the air as they tracked the creature, weaving through the towering trees of Narnia. It was a celebration of Elizabeth's joyous news and the bond they had nurtured through years of triumphs and trials.

The white stag led them deeper into the woods, its shimmering form darting just out of reach as if guiding them to a place of significance. Elizabeth slowed her pace as they approached a familiar clearing. Her breath caught when she saw it—the lamppost standing tall amidst the greenery, its light unwavering.

Peter, Susan, Edmund, and Lucy halted beside her, their faces mirroring her astonishment. "The lamppost," Lucy whispered, her voice laced with wonder. "This is where it all began."

Elizabeth felt a strange pull, a mix of nostalgia and something more profound. As if drawn by an unseen force, they got off their horses and stepped closer, passing the lamppost and finding themselves within the familiar walls of an empty wardrobe. The air shifted, and a cool breeze brushed against their skin.

The siblings tumbled out into the Professor's house's spare room, their feet hitting the wooden floor. Confusion gave way to realization as they took in their surroundings. The rich, aged scent of the wardrobe and the golden light filtering through the window—it was as if no time had passed in the world they had left behind.

Elizabeth looked down at her hands and gasped. The lines of maturity and the calluses of years spent wielding swords and ruling a kingdom were gone. Her reflection in the wardrobe's glass showed the face of her twenty-year-old self.

Peter touched his face, stunned to find the youthful features of a fourteen-year-old staring back at him. "We're... children again," he said, his voice shaking with disbelief.

Susan reached for her long hair, which now barely brushed her shoulders. "It's as though everything in Narnia was... a dream," she murmured, tears welling in her eyes.

Edmund's hand flew to his chest, where scars from battles fought were now absent. "But it wasn't a dream. We lived it. All of it."

Lucy clutched Elizabeth's arm, her wide eyes brimming with emotion. "Narnia is real. Aslan is real. Everything we did—everything you did, Elizabeth—it mattered."

Peter and Edmund, compelled by a mix of longing and disbelief, rushed back to the wardrobe. They pushed open its doors, hoping against hope that the path to Narnia would still be there. But as they peered into the wardrobe, they found only rows of coats and an empty wooden back.

"It's... it's gone," Peter whispered, his voice tight with frustration. He pressed his hands against the wood as though willing it to open. "We can't go back."

Edmund clenched his fists, a shadow of sorrow crossing his young face. "How can it just disappear? After everything we've been through..."

Elizabeth stood frozen, her breath hitching as a wave of horror washed over her. Her hand instinctively went to her stomach, where she could still feel the faint, miraculous flutter of life. Her heart raced. Our child... my child is still with me.

Her siblings turned to her, noticing the pale look on her face. "Elizabeth?" Lucy asked softly, stepping closer. "Are you all right?"

Elizabeth nodded numbly, her gaze flickering to the wardrobe. "I... I need to speak with the Professor. Urgently."

Hurried footsteps echoed down the hall, and Professor Kirke appeared in the doorway, his expression one of concern. "What's all this noise? What's happened?"

Elizabeth met his eyes, her voice steady despite the turmoil in her heart. "Professor, I need your guidance. Now."

Kirke's brow furrowed, but he nodded. "Come with me. The rest of you stay here for now."

Elizabeth followed him down the hall to his study, her siblings exchanging anxious glances behind her. Once inside, the Professor closed the door and turned to face her. "What happened in Narnia?" he asked simply.

Elizabeth looked at Kirke with mixed emotions.

"I've been there, a long time ago. When Jadis ruled. But what brings you back here in such a state?" Kirke asked, concerned.

Elizabeth hesitated, her hands trembling slightly. Then she spoke, her voice barely above a whisper. "My siblings and I freed Narnia. Jadis is gone. Professor, I... I was married in Narnia. To Aslan. And I..." She paused, placing a protective hand over her stomach. "I'm carrying his child."

Kirke's eyes widened, but he quickly composed himself. "This is extraordinary, Elizabeth. I've never heard of such a thing."

"I need to know," Elizabeth said urgently, "if this child will be safe here. In this world. I can't lose them. They will be my only link to Aslan."

The Professor regarded her with a solemn expression. "The child being of Aslan must have protected them when transported to this world. I believe they will be safe, Elizabeth. But their existence here may carry significance we cannot yet understand."

Elizabeth's shoulders sagged with relief, though her mind swirled with questions. "Thank you, Professor," she said softly. "I'll do whatever it takes to protect them."

Kirke nodded. "And I'll be here to help in any way I can. For now, focus on what matters—your family and the life you carry."

Elizabeth left the study, her heart heavier but filled with a renewed determination. Though Narnia was lost to them for now, her love for Aslan and the legacy of their union remained. She would protect their child, no matter what challenges awaited in this world.

In Narnia, time passed differently, and the absence of the Pevensies, especially Lucy, began to weigh heavily on her dear friend Tumnus. Days turned into weeks, and he noticed the once-vivid warmth of their presence fading. He had written letters and messages but received no word in return.

One morning, as the sun's rays filtered through the leaves of the forest, Tumnus made his way to the lamppost—the very place where he first met Elizabeth and then Lucy. He hoped, perhaps against reason, that he might see her emerge once more from beyond the trees. But as he walked past the familiar path, he encountered only more forest. The wardrobe's connection to Narnia had vanished.

Realizing something was deeply wrong, Tumnus hurried back to his home, where he penned a message to Aslan. Knowing the gravity of the situation, he called upon the eagles, Narnia's swiftest messengers, to deliver the letter directly to the great Emperor.

The message read:

"Dearest Aslan,

Something is amiss. Lucy, her siblings, and Elizabeth have been absent for far longer than usual. I ventured to the lamppost, the gateway to their world, but found only an unbroken stretch of forest. It is as though the doorway has vanished.

Your wisdom and guidance are needed more than ever. Please, return to us swiftly.

Your humble servant,

Tumnus."

The eagles, with their keen eyes and powerful wings, took flight, carrying Tumnus's message across the skies of Narnia. The land held its breath, hoping for Aslan's return to shed light on the mystery. Meanwhile, whispers of the Pevensies' disappearance spread throughout Narnia, and many wondered if their beloved Empress, Kings, and Queens would ever come back.

When the eagles delivered Tumnus's message to Aslan, he read the parchment in silence, his golden eyes flickering with deep emotion. The words weighed heavily on him. The knowledge that the connection between Narnia and the Pevensies' world had been severed struck him with a profound sadness.

The absence of Elizabeth, his beloved, added an even deeper layer to his turmoil. He felt the void she had left in Narnia, her light and strength sorely missed. Yet, the realization that he had no inkling of her whereabouts—nor any way to reach her—left him feeling powerless for the first time in centuries.

Aslan paced the halls of his camp, his thoughts torn. He trusted in the balance of the worlds, yet the separation was painful beyond measure. He did not yet know that Elizabeth carried within her a life—a piece of both him and her, a symbol of their union and love.

He turned to the nearest cliff overlooking the vast expanse of Narnia. The wind rustled his silver-white hair as he closed his eyes and spoke softly to the skies, a prayer and a plea:

"Elizabeth, wherever you are, may you be safe. May our bond transcend the barriers of worlds. And may I one day see you again, to understand what the fates have chosen for us."

Aslan transformed into his lion form, and his roar echoed through the lands. It was a mournful yet resolute cry that shook the hearts of all who heard it. He knew he had to protect Narnia and its people, even as his heart remained tethered to Elizabeth and their unborn child—though he did not yet know the depth of what he had lost.

- The End -

AN: Thank you so much for reading The First Empress of Narnia!

The first part of this series has ended.

And the next chapter will start the second part of the series.