Chapter One
Aurana, daughter of Liriana, heir to the throne, watched her father's new Rider spar with his trainer. He had good form and footwork, she thought. An all around accomplished fighter. He glanced up and saw her, nodding briefly in acknowledgment.
A messenger came up behind her and bowed; she barely spared him a glance. "Milady, there is a Lieutenant Daven here to see you," he told her and she turned to him. "Where?" she demanded. "The main hall, Princess," he responded, wheezing slightly, as she walked briskly out.
She walked sedately into the main hall, glancing around for observers. When she saw none, she rushed to Daven and into his arms. He lifted her up and twirled her around, his joy in his eyes.
"I've missed you, my love," he told her.
"And I you. I love you so much, Daven." Some would say love wasn't important, just a child's fantasy, but Aurana, barely fifteen, already knew better. And though Daven was twenty-nine, she cared not about the age difference. He was her true love, her soul mate.
"Aurana . . ." Daven began hesitantly.
She looked cautiously up at him and asked, "What? What is it?"
"We're to go to Surda to fight the Varden soon. In two days."
"What? You're leaving already? But you just got back!"
"I know. I know it's not fair, but I have to. Believe me, I don't want to, but I have no choice."
"I suppose that's true," she murmured. "Are you sure you have to?"
"Even Murtagh and Thorn are going."
That confirmed it. Galbatorix would never send his new Rider out for a minor battle. She closed her eyes and nodded in acceptance.
From the shadows, Murtagh watched the young couple, a surprising jealousy growing in his stomach.