Part 4 – Present

Arya paced the floor in front of her throne, amazed at the conclusion her counsellors had just now presented her. It was more of a threat, really. Provide the elves with an heir within half a century, or resign.

The throne hall was empty now, as she had ordered everyone out. While she pondered the decision the five male elves had taken, she grew angrier for each second. Who were they to tell her, the queen and the only dragon rider of their kind, that she had a time limit in which to secure the succession to the throne?

Deep in her heart she knew her mother would never have agreed to such insolence. How dared they? She expected that sort of behaviour from Urgals, maybe even humans or dwarfs, but not from elves.

Even so, she doubted if she had any choice. She couldn't, wouldn't, risk losing her position as queen. Then her mother's death would have meant nothing, and she wouldn't have that.

Then he heard Firnens voice calling her. She sat down and closed her eyes, ready to listen. Just listen. She loved the connection between them, loved that he could speak to her even though he wasn't with her physically.

Arya. He spoke softly to her, almost whispering, and she sighed. I know you're struggling, little elf, but you are strong. This might be the push you need, even though you think of it as a curse at present time.

Arya frowned. What do you mean? she asked him.

Look into your heart, and look deep. You'll find all the answers you need there. I've seen it. Come to me when you are ready. I will already know the answer. I've seen it in your heart, Arya, and it is beautiful.

Then he was gone. Slowly Ayra opened her eyes and sat up straight. The throne hall was still empty. She was all alone.

Restlessness made her stand up and walk around the room. What did Firnen mean exactly? Arya went through his words several times, thinking and pondering. Her heart. What did that have to do with anything?

Her heart, her feelings – and then this, the matter of finding a mate and secure the royal bloodline. How could Firnen speak of the two in the same sentence?

Love. That was the issue. That was what Firnen meant for her to seek. But how? Arya started biting her lip. Her heart was beginning to race and she felt as if she couldn't breathe properly. Whom did Firnen think she loved? What sort of person had he seen her giving her heart to?

In one moment of clarity all the pieces fell into place. Arya gasped for air and her eyes widened. No! it couldn't be – could it?

She spent hours alone in the throne hall looking for answers just as Firnen had instructed her too do. Time and time again she reached the same conclusion.

Firnen? she asked him.

Of course, he responded within a second. Yes, little elf?

Arya swallowed. Is it Eragon? Is he the one you've seen in my heart?

I think you know the answer to that, little elf.

She did.

Arya smiled and tears welled up her eyes. And… do you really think it's beautiful?

Indeed, Arya, I do.

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