Santa's here with an early xmas pressie!
Enjoy.
Disclaimer: Would someone please wrap Eragon up and deliver him to my address with a cute pink bow around his neck?
Chapter 11- Calm Before the Storm
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The next morning Arya awoke and went about her morning rituals. It was part way through when she realized she was fussing more than usual on her appearance.
Her brow furrowed, what was this? She had not been this way since she was a skittish young girl with Faolin.
Putting the thought aside for later, she dressed and was sliding her slippers on when someone rapped on her door.
A messenger in silver and blue silks was waiting politely outside, when he saw her; he bowed, murmuring a greeting. "Lord Shadeslayer inquires whether your schedule is free for tonight, Lady Arya."
She remained expressionless, studying the emblem stitched onto the front in black, recognizing it as Eragon's personal crest, an intricate and swirling dragon stretched out, with wings regally flared. "For him- it always is open," She said, smiling to herself inwardly.
The boy nodded, "I shall take that message right away, my lady."
Arya allowed her small smile to creep onto her face, instructing the boy to stand up properly, then questioned him, "How did you end to be in this job?" She asked, "You do not seem to be a Rider, most of the younger riders take up the job you have, do they not?"
He set his hands behind his back neatly, replying with a little nervousness, "No, my lady. Lord Eragon was extremely gracious to bring me into his personal service, I am one of a small group, his personal runners. I am very honoured. He rescued me from my burning village several years ago when rouge Urgals besieged us. My mother and father died, and I was made an orphan."
His eyes were bright, as if he were suppressing tears.
Bless him, he is trying to act like a man. Arya thought to herself, feeling pity for him who she guessed to be around the age of nine.
"You must miss them terribly," She said gently.
He swallowed hard, "Yes, but I was quite young when it happened, so I cannot remember my mother clearly. I am indebted to Lord Eragon, he saved my life, and gave me a wonderful opportunity to live, to be educated, and taught the weapon. I would die for him." His words were simply said, but there was no doubt to his conviction and solidity of his words.
Arya placed a hand upon his shoulder, touched by his courage, "You have been through much, young one. Do not hesitate to come to me for help if you have need."
The boy looked overwhelmed, and could not find the right words to express himself.
"What is your name?" Arya asked kindly.
"…Daiilan, Lady Drottingnu." He said with a quiet voice.
"Daiilan," She mused, "It sounds elven. You have carried your message well, I hope I will see you again."
He regained his wit and bowed, "Thank you, you have been too kind to me."
She nodded, and he walked away as composedly as he could, his light footsteps fading away.
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That day passed quickly as she had her first meal, then headed to the personal training grounds of Eragon and the more talented riders, practicing her archery and sword techniques with the few that lingered there.
Everybody was almost gone when she walked late into the lunch hall. She savoured the quiet and peacefulness around her, chewing thoughtfully on her salad.
The rest of the afternoon she spent in the extensive library in a corner with a love ballad, eyes scanning the flowing words intently. She ignored the bustle about her, as riders sat down to complete work and study. No one bothered her here, and she could see many higher riders also sharing the use of the books and literature for their research.
All too soon, the dark came and she got ready for her meeting with Eragon, dressing immaculately and oddly- less modestly than she usually would have.
They met by a fountain in the center of the castle, he looking a bit awkward at first, the brief encounter last night still fresh in their minds.
They spent hours together, talking and laughing, while Eragon showed her even more sights around the castle and discussed several of his students that he felt had potential.
He seemed proud of them, speaking of them as if they were sons and daughters that had been borne to him himself.
They stopped in the secret garden, sitting together on the stone bench, leaning toward each other slightly for warmth. The moonlight shone with a slight waver, beams of milk accentuating the shadows on the roses on a nearby bush and reflecting off leaves.
When they lapsed into comfortable silence, Arya glanced at him out of the corner of her eye. Seeing the man that he had become, she couldn't help thinking how different it all would be if she had accepted his advances earlier when he confessed his affections at the Agaeti Blodhren. She had not thought of what he would grow to be, how he would be. She did not think he would grow to be this Eragon of the present.
His face was upturned, the scant light falling across his face mysteriously.
Slowly, uncertainly, her fingers crept towards his, sliding over his long digits that lay bare pressed against the stone. His hand was warm, and a comfort to her icy fingertips.
He did not look at her, and she had her face turned away to the opposite of him, embarrassed.
Then after a while, his tense spine relaxed and his hand turned in her grasp, palm up, his fingers entwining with hers.
She curled her fingers around his loosely, letting go of a breath she did not remember holding.
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Over the next few weeks, their night time excursions happened often, bringing a sense of normality and distraction to the couple.
They gravitated closer and closer, holding hands now felt comfortable, being a regular habit. Their personalities seemed to be able to mesh easily, having none of those relationship problems that other couples had at the beginning.
Occasionally, Arya found enough courage to brush his face with a soft kiss before separating, and even at times, he responded by holding her closely and returning a kiss to her forehead, pulling his fingers through her smooth hair before backing away.
The riders did not pass rumours about the two, but there were a significant amount of giggles and pleased smiles when they passed through the castle together.
Arya sent regular reports back to her mother in Ellesmera, telling her of the situation, what Eragon had accomplished over the years. Islanzadi could not hear her daughter's voice but could sense a faint note of lightness in Arya's letters. Her own return letters had a sort of knowing feeling in them, which made Arya grin slightly when she read them.
Islanzadi's heart was soothed when she read over her daughter's letters, and thanked the stars for whomever was lifting her spirits.
It was one of those afternoons when the elven queen sat comfortably by the seat beside her window reading Arya's latest letter, when a firm knock sounded on her door.
She got to her feet gracefully despite her age.
"General Faladriel," She said politely, "What do I owe this visit to?"
His middle-aged face was grave and serious, and after he completed the greeting, she immediately sat him down and poured him a cup of steaming herbal tea.
"My thanks." He said with his smooth tenor voice, cupping it in both hands.
She seated herself and waited for his news.
The general placed his cup gently onto his knees, "My queen, we have received news that several mysterious creatures have been prowling the land of Alagaesia. There has not been much information except from the common fact that they are hooded, humanoid in body structure and have extreme powers."
She looked at him curiously, "Has this claim not been investigated yet?"
"No my lady, the Riders have not been informed, and we have just received word a few minutes ago." He answered.
Islanzadi sat deep in thought.
Faladriel seemed to read her mind, cutting through her reverie, "Perhaps it would be best if we bring the Princess Arya home. It will not be suitable for her to be far away from us in this time of unknowing." He suggested.
She considered, "Would she not be safer in the hands of the Riders? I trust Eragon with her life. And also the elders. Murtagh is also there for extra precaution."
"We will not be content of her safety in someone else's protection, wouldn't you feel more assured if it were fellow elves and yourself who picked her guard and oversee the security plan? After all, she is the heir to the throne. Also, Rider Murtagh has already started on his journey back to Nasuada and his son, Turin. Reports are that the prince is nearly eligible to take over Alagaesia's throne. Murtagh should be arriving in a few hours time."
"Do they know of the situation?" She asked.
"No, he is returning because Eragon has settled and has things running smoothly at Vroengard again. Nasuada most likely is looking forward to his presence by her side again anyway. He is the king of Alagaesia, even though she runs most of the kingdom." Faladriel answered.
"Then have him informed, we have no time to waste. We must have the riders examine these happenings, they are Alagaesia's protectors after all, and they have the utmost authority in this land. The people will not oppose them. Have these strangers caused any trouble so far?" She asked.
He stroked his chin, "No, not yet, they have been seen flitting about like they are non existent, but no one has been reported as harmed."
"Very well. Get to it. And as for my daughter..." she sighed regretfully, "bring her home. I want a full sentinel, and if possible if the riders can spare one of their own. I will call in on an old favour, but even so, Lord Eragon will not refuse me; he and Arya used to be close acquaintances. Keep her safe and lookout all the time. I want our best for this journey." She said briskly, emphasizing how important her last sentence was.
General Faladriel stood, bowing, "Of course, my Queen, we will guard her with our lives without a second thought."
"Good. Report to me once your task is completed. Do not forget to inform the humans and Riders of these events."
He bowed once more, then strode out of the room quickly.
Islanzadi sat down heavily, looking out into the sunlight of the noon day, at the blooming flowers outside her window.
Forgive me, Arya.
Uh oh, it seems like our second favourite couple (Chuck and Sarah are FIRST) are going to be separated…
It's not too long, sorry, but this chapter contains a big wrench so I guess that made up for it. I just realised I've been spelling Arya's last name wrong, please don't be too hard on me. I know it seems it's drawing to a close, and even I thought we were near the end, but I checked, and we have at least another 10 chapters to go :D We're only halfway!
I watched HSM 3 yesterday!! Aw Zac Efron's so adorable, Corbin's cute as usual, and Zeke was very niiice *Borat voice*
Thanks for the many reviews last chapter, I wonder if we can top that this time?
Aim for the nice green button right next to the pointer...
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Read on if you think you might have a reply from your reviews last chapter (or Chapter 9 too):
Kelsey0713: It's nice to get reviews like yours. Thanks.
Nick: I have no idea what you are trying to tell me, please un-jumble your words. Unless anyone else what's to decipher his message for me?
xLilypadsx: I know Arya is ooc, I just can't be bothered changing it. Although, keep in mind that this is a long time after the series, and they've spent time together.
Ryder Blade: Lol, of course not :) You're just a faithful reviewer.
EmeraldArya: You are one nice reviewer. Thanks for not being pushy and for taking the time to read my Chuck fanfics, it means a lot. I have higher regard for my Chuck fics, they seem to be written better, but it's hard to tell, it's difficult making the transition from 'old English-esque' writing to normal, conversation English that Chuck calls for.
InheritanceFan1990: I won't let you down lol I promise this fic will be finished, it's just a matter of how long. I'm determined to have at least one completed multichapter finished.
chasingfireflies: I think I've already answered your review in a PM, but great to see your randomness, as usual.
Squealing Lit. Fan: I'm pretty sure I've PM'd you too, and yes, it's quite unhealthy, the way I'm addicted to Chuck. I'm having a block in the Chuck section right now, it's okay though, since they're currently harassing the better writers to post something, so I'm safe.
METALLICxTEARs: Um, yeah...I'm not too concerned with the specifics so...yeah, it's a miracle that I'm even bothering to update really, but I can't let the readers who've been following this fic from chapter one down.
crimsonsword142: Thanks, I guess that's just the way I write, I tend to ramble about details. This fic was written before Brisingr came out, so I can't really be faulted about the Eragon/Murtagh brotherly thing.
morgan: Aw, I'm flattered :D