Chapter 31

Aslan's astral presence shimmered into existence within Susan's room. His form exuded a majestic aura, a lion of immense wisdom whose eyes radiated kindness.

Upon witnessing Aslan's arrival, Susan and Hadrian instinctively lowered their heads in reverence, a silent acknowledgment of his divine presence. Aslab, the ever-cheerful creature, broke the solemnity with a smile as he spoke, "Ah, I see. My son must have shared his idea of venturing into another world with you."

Susan's nod was accompanied by her gentle reply, "Yes, he explained the plan to me—about the destination and the time differential we'll encounter."

A melodic hum resonated from Aslan as he acknowledged her understanding. "Indeed, that is correct. However, before you embark on this journey, I have a task I wish to entrust to Hadrian."

Intrigued by the prospect, Hadrian's curiosity bubbled forth in his question, "And what might this task be?"

With an air of authority and purpose, Aslan conveyed, "The task involves venturing to a world crafted by my father, a realm that has faced its share of trials over the passing years."

Hadrian's awareness of the Emperor-beyond-the-Sea, Aslan's own father, prompted his next inquiry. "You speak of the world that Grandfather created."

Aslan nodded, confirming Hadrian's understanding, and elaborated, "It is one of the facets of his creative endeavors, one among numerous worlds and universes that he has birthed in his eternal existence."

This knowledge settled within Hadrian's mind, and Aslan continued, "He is known by the name Eru Ilúvatar."

Eru's reputation as the master creator had traversed through the tales Hadrian and Susan had heard from Aslan. Enchantment emanated from the stories, weaving narratives of Valar and elves, while also delving into the shadow cast by Melkor—the architect of Orcs and other malevolent entities.

Susan, grappling with the thought of her husband embarking on such a perilous journey, raised a concern, "Should I accompany Hadrian?"

The apprehension of leaving her spouse to navigate a realm where godlike beings clashed was palpable, amplified by the chilling tales of Melkor's deeds.

Hadrian's contemplative response revealed the depth of his consideration, "Though I would be uneasy with the idea of placing you in harm's way, Susan, the ultimate decision rests with you."

Moonlight streamed through the window, casting a soft glow on Susan's contemplative face. A fond smile curved Susan's lips as she made her choice, "Then accompany you I shall, Hadrian."

Hadrian smiled hearing that, while Hadrian's eyes, a deep pool of uncertainty, met hers. His mind raced, replaying the tales his father had shared about Arda, this enigmatic new realm. Visions of majestic Elves, resilient Dwarves, and the divine Ainur danced in his thoughts. His father had meticulously briefed him about these beings, ensuring there would be no cultural missteps. Yet, a shadow lurked in Hadrian's mind: the malevolent Valar, Melkor.

He recalled the treacherous history of Arda, how Melkor's insatiable thirst for power had once plunged the world into chaos. The Valar, guardians of Arda, had quelled his uprising, chaining him with Angainor and dragging him to Valinor. Melkor's cunning had briefly deceived even Manwë, the benevolent ruler of the Valar. Released from his chains, Melkor's facade of remorse was but a ruse, waiting for an opportune moment to unleash his malice once more.

Lost in thought, Hadrian's distant gaze caught Susan's concerned expression. "What happened?" she probed, her voice tinged with worry.

With a heavy sigh, Hadrian replied, "Just pondering the vastness and complexities of this new world Father spoke of."

Susan's curiosity piqued. "Tell me, what is this new world like?"

Hadrian, drawing a deep breath, began, "Imagine a realm reminiscent of Narnia, yet distinctly its own. A land where Elves grace the forests, Dwarves carve kingdoms beneath mountains, and divine beings called Ainur watch over all."

Susan's eyes sparkled with great interest, she wanted to meet the elves.She did not find elves in Narnia, only close counterpart was Dryads.

Susan smiled and said"I am looking forward to going there."

Hadrian smiled and kissed her forehead, while going into detail about Arda.