Chapter 3
This is it, Firnen. It's time to see if Eragon's plan will unite us or destroy us.
Are you really that uncertain? Firnen asked the elf queen. He lifted his wings away from his body so that she could place the saddle on his back. It seems the best course of action to me. The races will forever be unbalanced if any two have domain over the others.
Arya scowled. It was a rare expression for her. She carefully gathered the two eggs Eragon had given her and placed them in separate padded boxes. As she opened Firnen's saddlebag to place them inside, she absentmindedly ran her hand over the enchanted mirror Eragon had given her. He had placed a spell upon it so that whenever he scryed her through the mirror, a second spell would alert her of his presence. So far, nothing. As she expected; she was sure he wouldn't find a place to settle for quite some time. Still, she worried.
She placed the boxes in Firnen's saddlebag and uttered protective enchantments around it to ward off thieves and protect the eggs from being jostled around. Of course it's necessary. I just don't like it. Firnen twisted his head around and looked at her. As always, she felt a little uncomfortable when he scrutinized her like that. An amused smile lifted her lips. The surprises of being joined with a dragon never ceased, it seemed. Only her partner could make her feel like a precocious child. You think I'm being unreasonable.
A bit, Firnen admitted. We are about to do something that's never been done before. Even I, who have yet to live over half a year, feel as if the old ways, to a point, are over. The best thing we can do is try to uphold the old teachings of the Riders, while making room for changes best suited to our situation. For instance, should the new Riders come to Ellesmera and train with us, or should we find another place best suited for all the races?
Arya sighed. I don't know. I suppose we should train them here, for it is secluded, and they will not have to remain with us for long. Remember, they are joining Eragon once they are deemed ready. But Firnen, I am uneasy about the Urgals. Dwarves are similar enough to humans that it should be, if not easy, at least bearable to work with. But Urgals? Most everyone still does not feel comfortable with the thought of them being part of normal society. And I cannot say that I blame them. Although by all means they should not be destroyed, it would be best for them to remain where they are, in the Spine and on the fringes of civilization. Urgals, while more intelligent and compassionate than we originally gave them credit for, are wild, destructive, and not one to follow rules, at least not for very long.
Little one, Firnen said gently, using Saphira's pet name for Eragon—which sent a chill down Arya's back, along with a pang of sorrow that she sought to hold deep inside at all times—from what I've been told, and from what I know from memories, the very same was said about the wild dragons. Look at me, heart- friend. Arya obliged. Look at US. This bond is like no other. We are one, you and I, although blood and birth would dictate otherwise. Look at what we've done, which is absolutely nothing to what we WILL do. This bond…it changes us. It gentles us.
Arya smiled. Of course it does.
Who is to say, Firnen continued, that it will not do the same for the Urgals? I do not think Eragon doomed us to another war by including the Urgals and dwarves in the blood-oath, as you seem to half-think. I can see it in your mind, Arya, even if you dare not give voice to it.
I trust Eragon's judgement, Arya said firmly in the ancient language.
I know, Arya. Let us put aside such topics for now. We have much to do.
Arya straightened her tunic. Her former determination had returned. Absolutely.
The green dragon snorted. Arya strode towards him and stroked the side of his face, gazing into his eye. She held back the emotions threatening to overwhelm her. Would she never tire of being a Rider? Being joined with this amazing creature, always having someone to call friend…
Never being alone…
Thank you, Firnen. He hummed in response, and Arya smiled.