Chapter Four: An Important Matter.
As he turned to face the mirrors Eragon could see the images of Elira and Murtagh in their respective mirrors, lavender and crimson red to match the colour of their Dragon's scales. Below them hung the mirrors that belonged to the leaders of the four races in Alaga sia and Eragon's eyes froze as he laid sight upon the two central mirrors. A man's image was present in the deep purple mirror, the colours of his grandmother, decorated with the towers of Ilirea; however Eragon paid little attention to this man. Instead his eyes were focused intently upon the mirror on the wall that was emerald green and decorated with the forests of Du Weldenvarden.
Arya...After all these years. Eragon thought to himself, a wave of exhilaration coursed through his mind
As he spoke her name in his mind his heart raced, the feeling of pain that he felt when he thought of the day they departed Alaga sia coursed through him. He felt as he would be unable to control his emotions and felt welling in his eyes. He gazed into her eyes as she looked at him, both observing each other.
Little One Saphira said to him as she felt the pain in his heart and sent him her love and affection.
"Arta esterni ono thelduin, Eragon" Arya said, her musical voice reverberating through his entirety.
"Mor'ranr l fa unin hjarta onr., Arya Drotting" Eragon said in response, the sound emanating from his voice sounded rough and impassive as he said his part of the greeting. Immediately, guilt passed over him as he realised the tone of his response, and he saw Arya stiffen and her eyes left hit . Then he thought, why did I sound so?
"Greetings, Blodhgarm. It is has been far too long." Eragon heard her say to the fur covered elf.
"Indeed it has, your majesty." Blodhgarm replied and curved his hand in the elven greeting. As he listened to Blodhgarm speak to the queen, Eragon watched her observing her features and was glad to notice she remained as beautiful as the day they had departed.
"Good Afternoon, Leader Rider." Came the strong voice of a male, the human king Victor, who sounded irritated at being annoyed.
"Your Majesty" Eragon replied switching his gaze to the deep purple mirror and then he bowed his head. "Forgive me for my ignorance of your presence. I was not expecting to receive a conference from my riders this day. Never mind two monarchs."
As he finished speaking he flashed a gaze towards Elira who noticed it and bowed her head in apology. Allowing himself a smirk, he then turned his attention back to the human king. He noticed a lot of similarities between the king and his grandmother, from the way in which he sat and the confident tone in which he spoke. However his hair was blonde, unlike his mothers, which Eragon assumed he had inherited from his great-grandfather Athur.
"Ah, tis to be expected Lead Rider. Fear not that you have caused offense." Victor responded, waving his hands in dismissal of Eragon's fear.
"You words are welcome; however, forgive me if I am wrong. We have normally held our meetings at the beginning of each month?" Eragon said, cocking an eyebrow. "I believe we are not due to discuss matters until next week?"
"Ah, you are correct as always. No, Lead Rider, we contact you because we have another matter to discuss." The human king responded.
Eragon glanced back at the mirror that held Elira and then to Murtagh's. Their faces gave away nothing, and so he glanced at Arya who he found observing him. Ismira shifted her feet to his left.
"Very well, what is this issue that disturbs you?" Eragon asked, before shifting his gaze to Murtagh once more. "My brother seemed specific that this issue was important, in his letter".
"Over the course of the last several months, there have been a number of attacks upon the cities of the Empire. In recent weeks these have turned into disappearances" King Victor spoke firmly, Eragon raised his eyes in surprise.
"Disappearances of what kind?" Eragon asked
"Mostly they have been members of the Empire's naval fleet. Although recently, three members of the council in Gil'ead and the assistant to the governor of Dras Leona" Victor replied, and started at Eragon.
"Why have I not been alerted to this situation until now. If these disappearances have occured for several months..." Eragon stated, anger filling his thoughts at being ignored over the issues in Alaga sia.
"I apologize, Argetlam. I believed these where simply an issue of disagreements between the gangs that exist in those areas."
"Until recently, when government officials where taken". Eragon finished
"Exactly." Victor replied, after which Eragon could see the king looked worried.
"What in particular can I assist you with, your majesties?" Eragon inquired and glanced at Arya hoping to catch her gaze.
"We were hoping you might tell us what this is." Victor said, Arya still refusing to look at him, reaching to his left and asked his servants to hand him something.
Eragon stepped closer to the mirror in order to better see what the King had for him to look upon, and as Victor brought his hand back into view it held a piece of cloth.
holding the cloth in front of his mirror so Eragon could see it fully.
Eragon examined the cloth, a wave of recognition washed in his mind. The cloth that Victor held in his hand was made of a material died turquoise, around the edge it was braided with a border of golden leather. In the center of the cloth was an imprinted symbol of two hands joined together from within which a serpent rose, its head visible an inch above the clasped hands.
Is that... Saphira asked in his mind
Eragon took a breath as he examined the cloth and attempted a confused expression on his face as to try to ensure that the King, Arya and the two riders did not realise he recognized the design of the cloth. Eragon then turned his head to Blodhgarm who returned his gaze instantly, a look of recognition flashed in Blodhgarm's eyes before Eragon returned his eyes back to the mirror of the King.
"Where was it found?" Eragon inquired, passively.
"It was found in the river near Gil'ead by one of our military transport ships. The captain on board alerted us to its presence, though he did not know the origin." Victor replied.
"One was also found in our city of Ad n r." Arya stated and turned his attention to Eragon once more. He felt his legs wobble as he glanced upon her beautiful emerald eyes.
"Ebrithil, we had hoped you or your companions had heard of this, or seen it, before." Elira asked, her eyes cast on her master.
"I am afraid; I have not seen it before" Eragon lied, keeping his breathing slow. "Rest assured, I will look into the matter"
"I thank you, lead rider. I know not why, but this symbol is oddly troubling" Victor answered.
"Fear not your majesty, as I said I will look into the matter. However, I am sure it is nothing to worry yourself over" Eragon replied, a reassuring smile on his face. .
"That is reassuring, I shall prepare the evidence to be ready upon your arrival" Victor nodded.
Eragon raised both of his eyebrows in shock at what the King had suggested. Does he think I'm returning?
"I beg your forgiveness, your majesty, but I believe we have misunderstood one another. When I said I will be looking into the matter, I intended to do from Dragonhold." Eragon spoke passively
"I see." King Victor replied, Eragon detected a tone of irritation as the king then said, "I must ask how you intend to look into this issue when you are many hundreds of miles away, however this is a matter of importance to the security of the empire!
I understand it perfectly, This matter is more important than even he knows. Eragon thought to himself, though he kept his face impassive.
Little one! Be calm Saphira snapped at him across their mental bond
"I understand the importance of this issue, your majesty. However, my investigation into this issue will be undertaken on Dragonhold, while I stay to train my Riders" Eragon said, attempting to sound diplomatic.
"You will not consider coming to Alaga sia?" Victor asked.
"I am afraid not, not for this." Eragon replied.
"Perhaps the other matter that we need to discuss can convince you otherwise" Victor said, and again waved his hand dismissively at Eragon.
"There is something else that needs to be discussed?" Eragon inquired, he felt a slight anger towards the king for acting so.
You are refusing to come to his aid on this matter, little one. Saphira said
I know. But, I cannot reveal to him what I know of this emblem. As you know. Eragon snapped back
I do, but he does not. Forgive him for his anger, he only seeks to protect his people. Saphira replied. At her words Eragon realised she was right and that King was only acting so upon the information he has.
You're right...as always. Eragon said and sent her feelings of apology and love. Her musical hum flowed across their bond.
Eragon then returned his attention to the mirrors and his eyes fell upon Elira and Murtagh before looking back at the green mirror, Arya had been observing him as he spoke to the Saphira he could feel it, and then stood back from the wall the mirrors were hung.
"Well, if there is nothing else? I do not intend to be rude, but my students are waiting for our daily lessons." Eragon said and then opened his mouth to end the spell on the mirror.
"Wait, Eragon." Murtagh said. "There is something else that needs to be asked."
"Is there?" Eragon asked, raising an eyebrow.
"Yes, Ebrithil." Elira replied
"As you wish. What do you require brother?" Eragon inquired.
"Oh, well, it's not a request from me. " Murtagh answered, shrugging his shoulders at Eragon
"Nor me" Elira shook her head as she spoke. Victor said silently, his eyes focused upon Eragon baring into him.
"Nay, It is I who have something to ask of you." Came the voice of Arya from the emerald green mirror, the sound of her musical voice drew Eragon's eyes back to hers.
"If it is within my power, I would seek to grant your request. " Eragon replied after staring into the eyes of his old friend for a moment.
"I thank you for your kind words", Arya nodded in response at him and he noticed a flash of a smile across her lips before she settled back into her passivity. Eragon felt his blood rush at the sight of her smile.
"As I'm sure you are aware the Aghaeti Blodhren is upon us later this year."
"Yes, I am aware." Eragon replied; "It is hard to forget such a memorable event."
"Yes, I doubt it would be hard to forget" Arya said, a look of sadness in her eye. "I would like to know what your arrangements for the event are."
"As you wish, your majesty." Eragon bowed his head as he spoke, "We will contact the elves in Ellesmera and participate through mirrors. Here on Dragonhold, we will have a feast with the riders that return to their home. Finally, we shall sing along with our companions. In many ways, our celebrations will mirror those of your people exactly."
"That sounds well planned, "However, we had been hoping " Arya said, considering her words for a moment before falling silent "However, we had been hoping "
"We had been hoping you would join us here in Alaga sia, Ebrithil." Elira finished for Arya who looked to her left and bowed at something to the side, the mirror that connected Elira to the queen in the meeting.
"It would be a greatly increased the celebrations if you were to accept and attend, Eragon." Arya added.
Eragon was vaguely aware of Arya's words as he stood staring at the mirror, he felt all of the eyes in the focus on him as well of those in the enchanted mirror. Struggling to keep his face impassive, a single thought crossed his mind
Return to Alaga sia? Eragon thought to himself. I had never expected to return.
The thought was then absorbed by many others, as thousands of images and memories ran through his mind. The prediction Angela had given him, what would happen if he did return, should he, shouldn't he?
"It is a thoughtful offer, but we have students here that require our attention". Blodhgam spoke, and that snapped Eragon back to the room. His friend had obviously sensed his discomfort.
"They would be more than welcome here with you" Arya said, reassuringly.
What would happen if I return? What if I burst into flames as soon as I touch the land Eragon thought to himself and then amusement flowed through him from Saphira.
Oh, Little one. Behave, you are not going to burst into flames. Saphira replied
I might do, or maybe be struck down by lightning. Eragon said seriously, Saphira simply laughed.
Shut up Eragon replied embarrassed.
"It is kind of you to ask, but my place is here on Dragonhold with my students." Eragon stated, though not convincingly.
"Eragon" Arya's musical voice spoke; "You have been away from Alaga sia for close to a century. Many people have missed your presence in the world. We would seek to honour Alaga sia saviour. To honour our greatest hero, I hope you accept my invitation."
Eragon stared at her for a moment, absorbing what she said, a feeling of affection flowed through him as he closed his eyes.
Don't be foolish, little one. Came Saphira's voice before he said a word.
You wish to go back?
As do you, I can read you like the pages of a book.
Much has changed. Most of who we knew are dead.
Aye, Saphira acknowledged, but Arya, and Firnen are not and they were perhaps our greatest friends. Besides, the least we can do is pay tribute to Roran and Katrina and all else who has perished.
Eragon considered the power of her words and the emotion within them, deep down knowing that what she said was right. Opening his eyes once more, he found the eyes watching him eagerly. Ismira nodded smiling as he looked at her.
It will enable us to appease the King. He has been glaring at you for several minutes already, much like Nasuada used to do when you suggested something she did not like. Saphira noted, and Eragon glanced at the King to see still with the annoyed look on his face.
"Are you able to accommodate three of my students and Ismira?" Eragon asked, giving enough away without saying the words.
"Does that mean you will return, Uncle?" Ismira replied, and Eragon glanced at her before returning his eyes to the mirror. Arya's gaze was fixed on him, watching him intently.
"I will return for the Aghaeti Blodhren and while I am in Alaga sia, we shall investigate the Kings matter alongside his security forces and magicians." Eragon spoke firmly, though he had second thoughts in his mind, and he glanced at the King to see his face light up.
"Oh this is wonderful news, thank you Shur-tugal." Victor replied, and Eragon bowed his head.
"When will you depart?" Arya inquired, and Eragon considered her question for a moment.
"We will depart in two days, and the journey will take a little over a week and a half to arrive in Ellesmera. Some of the elves who left with me and Saphira will accompany us, there are several who have not returned to Alaga sia since we left."
"I know of those you speak" Blodhgam said, nodding. "I will contact them now".
"Thank you ", Eragon responded. "Myself and Saphira shall journey to Illirea at some point before the ceremony to seek the evidence he has."
"Very well, we will prepare for your arrival" Arya said.
"It seems your majesty the next time we meet, it shall be in person" Eragon said, and offered a smile.
"Wonderful news Indeed!" Victor spoke happily, "We shall meet in person as I have yearned for since my grandmother told me of you."
"It would be an honour to meet Nasuada's descendant." Eragon offered to the king who grinned in response.
"We shall look forward to your return to Ellesmera" Arya stated with a smile, which Eragon nodded his head stiffly in response to, and then the mirror along with the other three went blank.
Eragon stood in the room in silence several minutes as he absorbed what had just happened. They were returning to Alaga sia. A hint of anxiety crossed his mind as he considered what he might find when they return, his heart pained when he thought of Arya. She had been as beautiful as the day they parted, perhaps even twice as beautiful, and her voice still threatened to overwhelm his senses with his musical tone. Eragon allowed himself a smile at the thought of seeing her again.
"Ismira, please tell the students there Ebrithil shall be later for lessons" Eragon said softly
"As you wish, Uncle" Ismira replied and then headed out the door.
Turning to leave the room, Blodhgam waited and then proceeded to walk by him as they headed out of the door. They headed down a corridor, wordlessly knowing where each was going, and as they reached a turn in the corridor they both entered the door on the left and stood in front of rock.
"You recognized that symbol, old friend?" Eragon asked, glancing at the furry elf.
"It is the one you spoke off upon your return" Blodhgam replied, "The one the Eldunari mentioned?"
"Yes" Eragon nodded, "Come let us enter and speak with them of our departure"
Together, Eragon and Blodhgam, they both thought their true names and the rock in front of them started to sink into the floor below revealing a dark passageway into the place where the Eldunari where held.
"We're going to Alaga sia, Ebrithil?" Jacob asked eagerly, "I thought you said you would never go back."
"That was once true, young one." Eragon replied, and brushed his hair back behind his ear. He had gone to his office to find his students sat waiting for him. "But, we have received an invitation from the Queen of the elves".
"Arya Drotting invited us, Ebrithil?" Irim asked, raising an eyebrow.
"She did indeed." Eragon answered, nodding his head before thinking to himself; Irim is too clever, she knows of what we felt for one another
"I would like to return to Ellesmera" Irim said. "I have not seen Father in such a long time"
"As would I" Aaenor declared.
"I'm glad, and you Jacob?" Eragon asked,
"I suppose. I didn't like it much, too many trees. Theres too many birds too, they make a lot of noise." Jacob frowned, and the other three laughed as one.
"Oh my dear boy, you are precious" Eragon said, wiping his eyes. "Don't worry, we shouldn't be there long, and this is important to your heritage as Dragon riders."
"When do we leave?" Aaenor inquired.
"We shall leave in two days. We will travel aboard the Talitha until we hit Alaga sian land." Eragon answered, "After we land me, you and Irim will fly onwards to Ellesmera along with Ismira."
"What about me?" Jacob asked, as the others nodded
"You will accompany Blodhgam, Vuilia, Rogarm and Svilo to Ellesmera upon horse back. You are not quite as strong a rider as you should be yet." Eragon said reassuringly, "You won't be long after us, perhaps only another week at the most."
"Alright." Jacob nodded sadly,
"Don't worry, small one. You will in charge of protecting our masters. For they cannot find their way without a strong young rider." Aaenor said, rubbing Jacobs shoulder. Eragon smiled with pride at his students caring for one another
"Really, well I'll just have to then if they don't have anyone else to protect them." Jacob stated firmly.
You shall be most terrifying, little one Ascari spoke in their minds, a hint of amusement at her riders excitement.
"Good, now go and back your belongings." Eragon said and they exited his office. Once they had all left, Eragon walked over the window and drew back the cloth curtain letting the afternoon sun shine into the room. Saphira lay perched on the balcony outside of the room, which was on the second floor of Dragon hold, and using climbing through the window Eragon went and sat by her side watching the horizon.
You are exited, Saphira?
I am, partner-of-my-heart.
As am I, we are returning to Alaga sia.
...