"And then he told me all about his life before the Fall of the dragon riders."

"Sounds quite intimate." Aerin gave Aliana a look.

"It definitely felt very personal." She blushed. "I shared my life growing up here in Uru'baen and he was genuinely interested even though it seemed quite droll compared to everything he has seen and done."

"You should never belittle your own experiences."

"Ironically, Oromis said the same thing when I apologized for rambling."

Aerin chuckled, sipping some water. "He's not wrong. I appreciate the fact that he cares about you and isn't pulling punches. Shows he's serious."

"We both agreed we feel like we have known each other longer than we really have. We'll just have to see where it goes."

"K'aeligh is taking it slow with me because of what I went through with Galbatorix."

"And that bothers you?"

"You know me too well, Aliana."

"I was your handmaiden and have been your friend for a long time."

She chuckled. "Fair point. You are right of course. In a way it does bother me because he's doing that because I have loved him since I was younger, yet at the same time I know we have to establish a relationship and trust again. We have been apart for many years, so jumping into something serious right away wouldn't be wise."

"Mostly because many people still think of you as Galbatorix's."

"Partially. Others might assume I am using K'aeligh to get over Galbatorix and nothing else. I have no desire for either of those options, though there will probably be plenty who think one or the other regardless of how long it takes."

Aliana nodded. "Unfortunately, there will always be those like that. I'm sure people will think I am merely catering to the winning party if things get serious between Oromis and I."

"The important thing is that we don't let that influence us in any way. Denial wouldn't do anything except fuel their beliefs, whereas if we just carry on they lose their ammunition as time passes."

"Indeed."

There was comfortable silence between the two women before Aerin asked: "Did Eragon indicate when he was thinking of taking those who wished to be dragon riders to Du Weldenvarden?"

"Not yet. I suspect he is waiting for Oromis to return."

"You miss him."

"Yes, but he should be back soon. He's just meeting with the last noble and that won't take long."

"With Lord Dayton on our side the others wouldn't dare to say no."

"So far they haven't, though they aren't required to say yes either. Do you think maybe Lady Drea decline?"

Aerin tapped her chin. "It could be possible. She always wanted into Galbatorix's bed and he publicly snubbed her. Then again, for that reason she may decide to join us. She has always been more of the wild card as far as nobility goes."

"She never liked you, did she?"

"Absolutely not, though that may have merey been her jealousy showing. Then again, women can hold grudges forever while men forget instantly."

"Usually, anyway."

Aerin nodded. "There are exceptions in both parties."

Oromis entered the throne room two hours later after the two women had finished their meal together. "Lady Drea has declared she won't even consider joining us unless Lady Aerin comes to speak with her."

"She did?" Aerin raised her eyebrows.

"I told her I would relay the message, though I could not give her an answer as to whether or not you would come."

Aliana glanced at Aerin, who was standing there with an expression she hadn't seen since before Galbatorix's death. "I don't like the idea, it could be a trap. We were just discussing earlier how she isn't fond of you."

"Did she say it had to be only me?"

"She did not."

"Then I will take the Swordmaster. If she is making the unusual stance of speaking to me, then one last time the Lady Aerin and her handmaiden will make an appearance. We will go on horse back, to keep her waiting. You may follow in the air if you wish Oromis-elda, however I ask you remain out of sight. Aliana and I have little trust in this woman and do not wish her to pretend to be an ally if that is not her true intention."

"If there is such a big risk, I am not certain we should allow it." Nasuada folded her arms.

"Relax Nasuada, no one is better with a sword than Aliana." Murtagh put a hand on her shoulder. "Well, except Oromis-elda."

She sighed. "Very well, test her motives. If we don't deal with this now, later may not come."

Aerin donned a dress befitting a woman of her rank in Belatona and Aliana strapped her father's sword to her side in preparation for travel. They selected horses from the stables and rode together to Lady Drea's mansion while Oromis followed on Glaedr, high out of view.

Upon arrival, Lady Drea's servant came out. "Welcome, Lady Aerin and Swordmaster Aliana. My mistress hoped you would agree to meet with her."

"We shall see if it was worth my time to come out here." Aerin said coolly as she dismounted. "I brought Aliana since she didn't specify I had to come alone."

"I believe that would be permissible."

"I am coming either way." Aliana stated with an air of finality as she and Aerin walked inside.

Lady Drea waiting in a massive drawing room, a woman with luxurious brown hair and eyes. She wore a burnt sienna gown with golden leaf patterns sewn onto the fabric. "I see you brought a plus one."

"Of course, Aliana and I are inseparable. Now how about we forgo the formalities and you tell us why you wouldn't give the Argetlam an answer?"

"Yes...that." Drea smoothed her dress. "I know there were times in the past where I made it apparent I had no love for you. The truth is that was very catty of me and I lacked realistic insight at the time to think that I could convince Galbatorix to choose me. I heard a rumor you were part of the new ruling party and wished to speak to you because of our complicated history. If I do join, will that be awkward?"

Aerin raised an eyebrow. "As long as you do not repeat history, I think not."

"Very well. You may tell Queen Nasuada I accept the offer of allegiance."

Aerin and Aliana nodded and departed.