Disclaimer: No Characters, plot lines, places, or anything else from The Inheritance Cycle belong to me. I simply played with them and warped them to my own twisted imagination.
Disclaimer: I do not own The Lord of the rings or any of it's characters.
A/N: I would like to Thank my Beta 'Sharnorasian Empire' for all the work she did in editing this chapter.
Sorry guys I was having trouble getting this chapter to post for some reason :-(
Chapter 33
They marched fast and they marched hard. They were determined that they would arrive in time to meet the advancing Empire troops after they crossed the river and before they cleared the plains. Eryana and Arya spent the rest of the day marching with the rest, while Saphira and Eridor flew. Their Dragons had lowered their link to a minimal setting which led the two women to believe that they were either discussing something dealing with Dragon's secrets or something they considered personal.
Over the weeks since Eridor's birth his accelerated growth had continued and as such he had now almost caught up with Saphira in size. He could breathe fire and hold his rider, but he would still need to build up his stamina with both. Eryana knew that the trip to Du Weldenvarden would help out on that front. They would be able to stop when needed but it would be a long trip that would allow the young dragon to stretch his muscles.
Saphira herself had even grown over the last few weeks. However, her growth was at a more sedate pace. She had only grown by a dozen feet and Eryana knew it was due to the increased magic flowing through their link. She and Arya had also noticed a continued change in their own abilities and appearance. They had each grown by an inch or so which caused Eryana to stand at nearly 6 feet 2 inches while Arya now stood at 6 foot even. While they were still muscular and lean there was definitely a more noticeable definition to the muscles. They had noticed an increase in speed and stamina along with better vision and hearing. Their magical abilities had also increased both separately and when they linked their magic together.
Eryana knew that these changes were a result of their Dragon Master's bond, she just wished she knew what else to expect as the time went on. It was frustrating not having the information on hand, but she knew that there was nothing for them to do except wait until they are able to make the journey back to the Elvin forest.
It was nearly midnight when Eryana had Roran finally called a halt to their march. They would rest until day break and then move out again. They had just finished eating a quick meal and seeing to the guard rotation when they felt their link to Saphira and Eridor return to its normal level and the two dragons landed not too far from them. Did you two have a nice flight? Arya asked their Dragons.
Aye, little ones we did. Saphira answered. We flew back towards the river and plains and kept an eye on our advancing friends.
And what did you discover. Eryana asked as she and Arya settled on to their bed rolls.
Hey have reached the river and seem to be making camp for the night. Eridor informed them. I believe that they intend to wait until morning before they attempt to cross. If we leave at day break we should be able to be there by the time they are all across. If we stay far enough away they will not realize we are waiting for them until it is too late.
Sounds good to me. Eryana admitted. Will you two fly ahead tomorrow and scout their progress while we continue the march?
Aye, we will. Saphira agreed, we will keep the link fully opened tomorrow while we watch. Now it is time that we rest. She watched with some amusement as the two riders settled themselves on two different bed rolls about a foot or two apart. Have you two had a disagreement while we were gone? She questioned, looking for an explanation for their unusually sleeping arrangements.
Um…no. Eryana said confused, why?
Well I have not seen you to keep such a distance from each other since you mated. Saphira explained.
We did not think it was prudent to sleep as we normally would. Arya explained. While the Varden might know of our relationship, knowing and seeing are two different things. We wanted to avoid problems so close to a battle.
Saphira exchanged an amused chuckle with Eridor. Come here my little ones and lay between us. She ordered and Eryana and Arya simply shrugged and moved their bed rolls as requested. Once they were settled Saphira and Eridor draped their wings over their riders and blocked them from view. Rest now. We have much to do in the morning.
Thank you Saphira. Arya said as she immediately snuggled into her rider's side. I did not know how I was going to sleep being so far from Eryana.
I love you, my Princess. Eryana kissed her head tenderly. I love falling asleep with you in my arms and waking up with you still there. I can never sleep well without you.
I know my rider. Arya agreed. If I have my way there will never be a night were you have to sleep without me in your arms or you in mine. Sleep now, my love. We have a long day ahead of us.
Eryana just pulled her closer and held her as they both drifted into their waking dreams.
Eryana woke the early the next morning to find her mate propped up on one elbow and softly tracing her face. Her fingers were gently trailing over her cheek, jaw, nose, chin, forehead, and lips anywhere she could reach. Eryana couldn't make out the exact thoughts floating through her lover's brain because they were so jumbled, but she could feel a lot of love, desire, contentment, and fear flowing through their link.
Morning beloved. She said softly in her mind as she opened her eyes to find deep green ones starring back at her. Arya didn't respond at first. She simply smiled and then leaned in and placed a tender kiss on Eryana's lips. Before she could pull away Eryana placed her hand on the back of the dark head above her and held her close in order to continue the kiss. It was long and deep and even though it was full of passion, it remained tender with love. It wasn't until the necessity for air forced them to that they pulled apart.
Arya planted a small kiss on lips and then snuggled back into her mates strong arms; Mmmm, good morning to you too, my rider.
Are you all right, Arya? Eryana asked after a time when the feelings of fear didn't go away. What frightens you so much this morning?
Just the battle my rider. Arya admitted. Nothing more. I'm just worried about what this day and the next few weeks will bring.
I know, my princess. Eryana said softly. I fear them too, but we have to put that fear aside and fight. She gently ran her hands through long black hair. You and I will stick together whenever possible. We are stronger together so we will fight together.
I know. Arya admitted. I know it must be done. I know we are both capable and strong warriors, but I still fear losing you. There are so many things I want to experience with you that I won't be able to if one of us falls in battle.
We won't fall, my princess. Eryana assured. Truly believing the words. You and I have a long life that we are destined to live and it does not end with this war. Now come, my love. We need to ready ourselves for the fight ahead. I can hear the men beginning to move about.
Aye, my love. Arya agreed beginning to rise. Just remember that I love you Eryana Shadeslayer. I love you with all that I am and all that I will ever be.
And love I you, Arya Shadeslayer. Eryana assured her. I will love you until the stars fall from the heavens and the sun burns out.
Arya beamed at her mate as she allowed her love and desire to flow through their link and helped her lover to her feet. Eryana noticed that Saphira and Eridor were still sleeping and surrounded them completely, but had at some point retracted their wings from their tent like structure. It didn't matter since even without their wings covering them, Eryana and Arya were given enough privacy. Letting their dragons sleep longer they began to ready themselves for the day.
Arya drew enough water from the ground for the two women to rinse themselves and they changed into the padded clothes that they wore under their armor. I hate wearing this stuff. Eryana half stated half complained as she allowed Arya to help her tighten the armor. It's always too bulky and slows me down. It also limits my movement too much for my liking.
I know, my love. Arya agreed as she turned around and allowed Eryana to help her with her armor. I feel the same way. Perhaps we can talk to Rhunon about making us new armor when we return to Du Weldenvarden. Perhaps she can find a way to the armor lighter and better fitting then this. The elves had different methods than the dwarves and men.
It's worth a shot. Eryana agreed as she attached Arya's sword to her belt. She has to make your Rider's Sword first, but we should be there long enough that if she will agree to it she will have the time.
The decided to allow the dragons to sleep as long as possible so instead they simply used their elfish abilities and jumped to distance up and over Eridor. When they landed they came face to face with a very surprised Roran. "Good Morning, Cousins." He greeted them placing his fist over his sternum in the typical greeting, once he had regained his composure. "I was just coming to see if you wanted to join Baldor, Albriech, Blodhgram and me for breakfast before we have to head out."
"Sure." Eryana easily agreed. Even though it hadn't been long since she had come to terms with her cousin and the people of Carvahall it had been easier than she believed to move past their differences. Once the villagers had accepted her from whom and what she was instead of what they believed she should be, they had quickly fallen into an easy relationship. She was by no means friends with all of them and she wasn't sure she ever really would be, but she could at least spend time with them and find it enjoyable.
She was also surprised at how well Arya seemed to get along with Roran and Katrina. And even Elain and Horst. She really seemed to enjoy their company and she knew Katrina had been a great help to her when Eryana had be wounded in the fight against Murtagh. "Lead the way, cousin." She motioned him to lead while she and Arya fallowed slowly.
They joined the others for their morning meal and as they ate Eryana looked towards the blue furred elf. "Have we heard anything from the elves since last night, Master elf?"
"Yes, Eryana-elda." Blodhgram said tilting his head slightly in respect. I spoke to the queen just an hour ago and she informed me that they should be at the meeting place by tomorrow in the early afternoon."
"And what of the advanced group?" Arya asked. "When should we expect them?"
"If they continued on as the General planned they should reach the plains about the same time that we do." Blodhgram told them.
Something in his tone or manner gave Eryana pause. "Who is their leader Blodhgram?" She asked curiously. With everything else that had been going on she had forgotten to ask.
She could see the elf tense slightly and was surprised when he nearly growled his answer, "General Eowyn leads them." She was even more concerned when she felt her mate's tension and concern.
She wasn't sure who to address first but she could sense that Arya needed a few minutes to herself. "If there a problem that I need to know about, Blodhgram?" She asked the elf to give her lover a few minutes to gather her emotions. "If there is something that will cause problems I need to know about it?"
"I…" Blodhgram paused obviously trying to decide what to say. "General Eowyn is a very competent leader and warrior. But she is also to outspoken and brash at times." He admitted and Eryana knew that it was unusual for elves to be outspoken. Words held great weight with them and she they tended to choose them carefully. "She also is entirely too interested in things that she cannot have." As he added his last thought Eryana saw his eyes dart over to the Princess. Sensing that he might have said too much he stood. "If you would excuse me I need to see to our troops."
Eryana nodded absently as she focused on her mate. Arya? She ventured gently. When Arya didn't answer right away she reached out and touched her hand. You don't have to tell me anything, my love. I just want to make sure you are alright?
Arya tilted her face to look at her lover. I am fine, my rider. It was simply a name I had not heard in a while, one from my distant past. She took a deep breath and then continued. One that did not end well.
You don't owe me an explanation, Arya. Eryana interrupted gently. Vaguely she was aware that the other's had left them as well. I just want to make sure you are alright.
You are my mate, Eryana. You have a right to know. She said gently. More than that I want you to know.
Alright, my love. Eryana conceded. But only if you are sure.
I am. Arya sent her certainty through the link. It's a rather simple story. I grew up with Eowyn. She is only 10 years older than me and we were very close friends when we were younger. She was the one who made me realize that I preferred the company of women to me.
She paused to see if her mate would say anything, but all she could feel was love and support so she continued. The attraction went both ways, but I was still young and seeking my mother's approval. I wouldn't allow myself to explore the possibility of a physical relationship with her. She pushed and argued with me. She tried everything she could to get me to change my mind, but I wouldn't be moved. I think a lot of it had to do with the fact that while I did care for her. I never loved her.
Blodhgram wasn't kidding when he said she was always brash and outspoken. She cornered me one night and again tried to persuade me and when I tried to leave she became insistent. Arya could sense her rider's unease at the tale and sent her feelings of love. Faolin was actually the one to break up the situation. He had been making his rounds and stumbled upon us. He sent her on her way and escorted me back home. It was 6 months later that he and I became mates and took Yawe.
The day we left, Eowyn promised that someday she would get what she desired. Arya finished her story. And while she was speaking in the common tongue at the time, I still feel like she will try something again.
She can try. Eryana tried to reassure her mate speaking in the ancient language. But it will not matter. We are mated for life, Arya, eternally and completely for as long as we live. Even in death I will always love you. You are the only one I will ever need.
Arya had tears in her eyes when she answered her lover's pledge. You are the only one I will ever want or need, Eryana. Arya slipped into the ancient language as well. I will always love you and nothing or no one will ever change that or come between us.