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Chapter 4: With Me
Enter."
Outside, there was a thick sheet of mist that fogged up the window. There was not much scenery to appreciate. However, Eragon preferred that to the endless piles of parchment stacked up on his desk. He was seated in his high backed chair- away from it, looking out the styled, elvish window.
The door opened on well- oiled hinges, admitting the visitor.
"Yes, Ciseron?"
"Well, well. It seems the High Master is neglecting his duties."
The rich, lilting voice was unmistakeable. He swung around in his chair.
"Arya? You are very early today."
She stood there before his desk, eying the piles of paper. The elf was clothed in a forest green tunic, pants and knee high boots. Her clothes- he could not help but notice- hugged her frame loosely, accentuating the already pleasing shape of her body. Eragon tried not to blush, berating himself.
"It's too early in the morning for this," he muttered to himself.
"I'm sorry?" Arya asked, brows furrowed.
"Erm… nothing. What brings you here?"
She regarded him a raised eyebrow, noticing the sudden change in subject.
"Well," she said, drawing the word out slowly and lowering herself into a chair. "I had a desire to see what occupies your time in the morning. That, and I would also like to observe the students' training."
"Of course. That is an excellent idea. Well… not the part about what occupies me. As you can see, this is no stroll in the garden. I have many, many documents to read and sign. Are you sure you would like to stay?"
"To be honest, I have naught else to do. I shall help you complete these."
"Were you not being honest with me before?"
Arya looked up from under long eyelashes, fixing him with a look. "Is that a challenge, Eragon-elda?"
Then she relented with a small smile, moving to pick up a pile close to her. "As you once said, it is a figure of speech."
She remembered. But how much more?
"Of course, Arya Drottning."
So for the next four hours, they laboured over the documents- reading, sealing, rejecting and correcting. Eragon had to admit that her help was invaluable. Arya's insight regarding systems, laws, monetary and technical issues was impressive. Together, they went through all the piles save for one envelope addressed to someone by the name of Kilvari. Eragon leaned back in his chair, wiping the sweat from his brow. He blinked to moisten his dry eyes and stretched his aching limbs. Then, sighing, he picked up the envelope. Across from him, Arya leaned back in her own chair, watching Eragon read the envelope. It read:
Kilvari of the House of Niduel
The Silver Heights
Downstream
Eragon frowned. Now this was a place he had never heard of. His curiosity piqued, he tugged at the seal. It did not move. His frown deepened. He tugged again with more strength. Still the seal did not break. He looked up and saw the frown mirrored in Arya's face. Without speaking, Eragon handed it to her. He watched as she too, struggled with it. The elf Queen shook her head.
"This has been sealed with a very stubborn spell. I cannot open it."
"Have you heard of this… Kilvari?"
"No, I have not."
"If you do not, then who does?"
Arya remained silent, shrugging her shoulders.
He stared at the envelope a while longer before putting it down on the desk. "I will ask Ciseron or Blödhgarm of this later. In the meantime… shall we eat?"
"Yes," she replied, stretching her legs before standing. "Let us."
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After they finished lunch, the two walked down the corridors in the east wing of the castle. Through the windows, Eragon noted that the mist was clearing to reveal fine weather. He smiled, satisfied. It was perfect for what he had planned for the afternoon. Then he realized that Arya was speaking to him.
"I'm sorry, my mind was elsewhere. What were you saying?"
"I was saying… how are the students doing?"
"Oh, very well… of course, there will always be variation among groups, but overall I am satisfied with their performance. And," he said, stepping into the next hallway. "As you know, elves tend to excel in all areas. However, the humans are not so far behind."
At this, Arya smiled knowingly. "And the dwarves?"
"Very able warriors and smiths. But… perhaps they could improve in their studies."
She nodded. "There are also a few elven students I would like to bring to your attention."
"Oh?"
"Elyan of Silthrim, Issena and Neris of Ellesmera."
"Are you familiar with them?"
"They are from well known households, and their families are enquiring after them."
"Ah, I see." Eragon thought for a moment. "They are all doing fine. More than fine. Elyan…Elyan has a good grasp of gramarye and wields the staff well. Neris has a very keen, quick mind and wields the bow with skill. Issena is a superb swordswoman- one of the top warriors, I must say. She excels in all other areas too. She is a delight to observe. In fact, you will see her skill in action. I believe she will be sparring with a human rider today."
"This is all good to hear. Thank you for your guidance, Eragon. I can rest easy knowing these students are safe in your hands."
"Don't forget Blödhgarm and the other teachers, I am only one among many."
"Even so. I am glad to hear of their achievements- their parents will be even gladder to receive the news."
Eragon shrugged, chuckling. "You need not worry. If there is one thing I have learned about the elves, it is that they strive for excellence."
"Not all of us. But most."
They finally reached the double doors to the sparring room. Eragon pushed on the handle, inviting her in with a hand. A multitude of people gathered in the great chamber, too absorbed in the fight to pay attention to the visitors. Several elves turned but Eragon put a finger to his lips. They nodded and faced the front. Eragon and Arya quietly positioned themselves to the rightmost corner where they had a clear view of the combat. In the half circle that the crowd formed, two Riders stood panting with iridescent swords. Their shields lay battered and broken on the ground. Thedas had taken his helmet off, dark hair slick with sweat on his forehead. Grey eyes watched from under heavy brows like a brooding storm. Opposite him, Issena stood mirroring his stance, her silver hair wild and charged. With slight surprise, Eragon noticed that her expression was tense and strained. A long, thin cut marked her left forearm.
"He drew blood first," Arya murmured next to him, her tone also surprised.
"So it seems."
No one spoke. No one moved. The humans watched intently while the elves were as calm as ever, standing rock still.
It's a façade, snorted Saphira in his mind.
Aren't you supposed to be enjoying your flight with Firnen?
Oh, I had to watch this one, said Saphira, amused. As I was saying, the elves are just as nervous. This is a battle for racial honour.
Eragon looked to the wide window to the south. Sure enough, he could see both blue and green dragons watching from the grass.
When did you arrive there?
Just a while ago.
He shook his head, smiling. Then his attention was brought to the duel again by the sound of sword against sword. Thedas struck again and again- but this time, not with the anger that he used to release. Instead, Eragon was pleased to see the youth deliver each strike with measured and even swings. His silver sword parried and arced, twisted and slashed. With each movement, his footwork became surer and the more he was able to intercept her attacks. This drove Issena to the defence as she had to keep searching for the right opening.
"Good work," he said under his breath.
However, the elf was as focussed as ever, showing no signs of tiring. She gave him blow after blow, each strong but not clumsy. They were quick swipes and almost flourishes, tracing the air with violet strokes. It was a graceful dance, fluid and expertly. Even the humans murmured with grudging appreciation. The elf's body moved without restriction, flexible to any attack Thedas threw at her. He made the mistake of making a stab. With a flick of her wrist, she trapped his sword in the coil of her crossguard before he could blink. She then directed it downwards in a spiralling motion, twisting his forearm. He cried out in pain but recovered by twisting his body around to release the tension on his arm. Breathing hard, he yanked the blade from her crossguard. Issena was quick to seize the chance and bounded forward to aim at his legs. To everyone's surprise, he rolled to her right a split second before she made the move- as if he had expected this. This time, the elf frowned. She whipped around to face him, doubly cautious. With a hiss, Issena lunged again. Her own amber sword seemed to glow with energy as it slashed horizontally in the air. Thedas ducked and straightened to bang her blade away with the wide flat of his own. Issena struck another blow, which he parried. Time and time again, he managed to anticipate her moves. Finally, she managed to unsteady him with a whirling cut. This drew some blood from his shoulder and he grunted in pain. Her eyes burned with triumph… but as she swung her sword, he leaned to the side- again, as if expecting it- and simply cut down to trap it on the ground. Then… the tip of his cool blade was at her throat. Issena froze, eyes wide and unbelieving.
The whole hall echoed with the last ringing of metal. All else was silent.
Then the cheering began. Human Riders came forward and surrounded the winner, thumping him on the back and laughing. Blödhgarm smiled in approval. Though most of the elves remained impassive, some could not hide their displeasure. Meanwhile, Issena stood tall and dignified even in defeat. She regarded the human Rider for a while before sheathing her sword and turning to go.
"Wait."
She turned again. Thedas squeezed through the crowd to get to her.
"Issena, thank you for this duel. You were, most definitely, a worthy opponent."
The elf lady dipped her head in response. "And you also, Thedas-finiarel."
"Hardly. I simply knew how to see."
Then he noticed the cut on her forearm. Almost instinctively, he held a hand over it. "Waise heill."
The cut sealed and the flesh knit together, leaving smooth skin.
The elf blinked in surprise. "… Thank you."
Hiding a small smile, Blödhgarm walked toward them.
"Well done, Thedas. You have given a display even elves cannot ignore!" said Blödhgarm. He then turned to Eragon and Arya. "Ebrithil, Your Majesty. What were your thoughts on this?"
All eyes turned to the two figures half hidden in shadow. They stepped forward. Eragon smiled at Thedas and Issena. "You have both fought well. Congratulations on your victory, Thedas. You have earned it. And you have proved yourself today."
This was high praise, and Thedas bowed in response.
"Issena…" began the Queen. "I see your talent is beyond expectation. Fluidity, precision, speed and creativity. You show great promise, and I am well pleased."
Like Thedas, the silver haired elf bowed her head.
"Very good," said Eragon, grinning. "It is heartening to observe such progress. I hope you will all learn from this combat and improve on your own skills. You may carry on."
"Yes, Ebrithil!" the crowd answered as one.
Arya raised an eyebrow, amused. Then the lesson continued, while the two exited the scene. When they stepped outside, Eragon breathed in the fresh air.
"It seems… that fate is playing a strange game," said Arya.
He examined her face. Arya's gaze was directed ahead at the sky.
"How so?"
She shook her head. "It is not significant."
Though he perused her face for any signs of continuing, there were none. He decided to leave the matter alone and rolled his shoulders, facing the expanse above.
"Well, since that is over, are you ready for the afternoon?"
This time, she turned her eyes to him. "And what have you planned?"
He gave her a sideways glance, grinning. "How about a long ride?"
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A blast of wind whipped him in the face as Saphira suddenly gained speed. It knocked the breath out of him and nearly tore him out of the saddle. The straps tightened painfully on his legs, strangling the flow of blood.
Careful! He said to Saphira once they maintained constant velocity.
Oops. Sorry, she replied lazily.
Eragon gave her a friendly whack on the back. Make up your mind, will you? Don't just stop in the middle like that.
I thought I saw a particularly juicy looking goat below.
Eragon rolled his eyes. Do you want to win this race or not?
Fear not, I am far ahead.
He looked back, surprised to see Firnen gaining on them.
Don't be so sure of that.
How did he-? No, he must have taken a shortcut, grumbled Saphira. With one great swoop of her wings, she propelled herself forward.
The two dragons shot through the valley, flapping furiously.
Below them stretched the glistening river Aenora, which led to a mountain Eragon had once visited with Saphira. Other mountains flanked them on both sides of the valley, rugged and hardy, as if the hands of a mason had chipped away at their sides. It was, Eragon thought, paradise. For the past few hours, the four of them had been touring the north of Oris-Vel, traversing miles of land. Eragon introduced Arya to different geographical phenomena, such as the geothermal pools in Hasverden, the Golden Terraces of Idera , the Crystal Cliffs and many more. She was very curious about these and questioned him on every single one of them, to which he eagerly responded.
At one point, they flew particularly close to a cliff with strange looking orange birds. They immediately took flight, cawing in alarm. Behind them came a laugh. Eragon turned. Arya sat in her own saddle, dark hair flowing behind her and eyes lit with mirth. Her voice was like winter bells on a clear, white morning. He wanted to hear it forever.
Firnen snorted in amusement and flapped harder.
As they neared the great mountain, Saphira slowed her flight.
Do you see anywhere I can land?
Eragon squinted his eyes and scanned the face of the mountain.
Not that I-
Ah! Found one! That small cliff over there.
Good to know you need me, he said with a wry smile.
Saphira chuckled. Both she and Firnen alighted on the said cliff, translucent wings buffeting the air. Eragon undid the straps and slid down her back. Arya did likewise and joined him on the edge.
We will wait here for you, said Saphira to him, folding her wings.
Firnen looked puzzled but did not question their intent. Eragon placed a hand on Arya's shoulder.
"Come, I would like to show you something."
She nodded. There was no hesitation, no question about where they were going and why the dragons were left behind. Secretly, Eragon's heart warmed to realize her trust in him. He moved toward the rocky wall, climbing the rough path Riders had carved. Arya followed close behind. For a good few minutes, they made their way up the mountain, taking care not to lose balance or let the sharp rock gash their skin.
At last Eragon's hand closed on a deep depression in the wall around the corner. The air was bitingly cold up here but a warmth came from the rock. He resisted looking down, as he knew the height was dizzying.
"Ma'mor, grind abr hjarteya."
He heard and felt a rumble as the 'door' slid open. Eragon stepped sideways into the opening and reached for Arya's hand as she edged closer, her back against the mountain. After he helped her in, Arya straightened and her eyes widened. There before them, was an enormous chamber. The walls were plated with gold and inlaid with precious stones. Endless rows of shelves lined them, Eldunari and eggs nestled in the holes.
"I thought you would like to see," Eragon explained, smiling. "Welcome to the new Vault of Souls."
She stopped forward in wonder, eyes scanning the shelves. Colours danced in all directions, reflecting off the refined walls and emanating from the gem like eggs. Then there came heavy, clanging footsteps. Eragon waited calmly as a dragon headed man approached, body constructed with steel and a loincloth tied around his waist. He held up his sword, then lowered it. Eyes flashed like fire in recognition. Eragon stood calmly as his mind was probed and analysed by Umaroth.
Ah, Eragon. It is you. Welcome back. And you, Arya Drottning. It is a great pleasure to have you here at last.
Arya bowed. "It is indeed, Master Umaroth."
It has been too long, my young Queen, he replied sadly. A Rider's place should be with Riders.
"I… cannot leave my people."
You are right. But what of Firnen? He must needs soar the air with dragons.
Arya remained silent, her face troubled.
But enough of this, said Umaroth, sighing. Take a look around, young ones. Enjoy your time here.
Cuaroc stepped aside for them. Arya started forwards and Eragon followed as she walked slowly, admiring the display. Around them, voices whispered and chattered, deep and mild, sombre and energetic. The Eldunari discussed things unknown and beyond understanding. He heard snatches of conversation and occasional mention of Du Fyrn Skulblaka and the war against Galbatorix. As they passed, he felt each of their minds bend towards them.
Kingkiller...
… Our gratitude for your deed…
Kingkiller…
Shadeslayer…
Fricai abr skulblaka…
"It is the new age," murmured Eragon.
"Yes," said Arya, looking back at him.
"Can you believe we have accomplished the very thing we fought so hard for?"
She stopped and smiled. "No… sometimes, it is like a dream. And in my dreams, I am back in the throne room of Uru'baen , or laying siege to Feinster."
"Or infiltrating Dras Leona…"
Arya shuddered. "Do not mention that place to me. It was a nightmare matched only by my time in Gilead."
"But it was not for naught. We have brought peace to Alagaesia."
"Yes… and a new generation of Riders," she added.
"The best part of all," Eragon said with a smile.
She smiled back. Then: "I must ask: how is it kept so hot in here?"
He laughed at the suddenness of her question. "This mountain has not breathed fire for thousands of years. However, there is one that does, located leagues away from here. With the help of Eldunari, we directed the lava flow underground to this mountain. The heat is conveyed upwards through a conduction system designed by the dwarves. It also controls gas pressure levels to avoid decompression and keeps out moisture to prevent thermal contraction."
"That must have taken an extraordinary amount of energy to carry out."
"Yes, I admit that I took many weeks off afterwards to focus on endless eating."
She laughed softly.
For some time, she walked around the huge chamber, marvelling at the beauty of it all. "This…" she waved a hand at her surroundings. "Is elvish or dwarvish work?"
"Both."
"It is beautiful… But why have you not brought Saphira and Firnen?"
He deliberated for a moment before replying. "She has come before. It usually pains her to see that which she cannot have. But today she simply wanted some time alone with Firnen. "
Arya's gaze turned to the rows upon rows of eggs before her, her expression unreadable.
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The two shielded their eyes from the glare of the sun and drank in the view at the edge of the precipice.
"I never get tired of seeing this," Eragon said.
"It is certainly a sight to see," commented Arya, nodding. "This is a good land for dragons."
"Aye… and it can be your home too, if you will let it," he said quietly.
Arya continued to gaze at the panorama, as if storing it in memory. "Eragon…"
"Your duties." It was not a question.
"Yes."
Eragon did not speak but stayed there a long time, admiring the view. Man and elf, emerald and sapphire. The quartet stood together on the cliff as they had in past times. An ache settled like sediment in his chest at the thought of her departure. It clawed at his insides like an animal. But he would not show it. He could not possibly show her this weakness.
Stay here, with me.
In the periphery of his vision, he could see her lustrous hair burnished in the sunlight, the strength and grace of her posture, the wisdom in her deep eyes.
No one can take your place. No one can be who you are to me. We have fought Galbatorix. We have seen the end of many days together. We have been through trials thick and thin. How can I live the many years ahead without you?
But it was a futile wish, for her path diverged from his. Such was the hand of fate.
I know that was pretty long lol... Some of it may seem unnecessary, but I personally think that this is an important chapter. There will be more action and romance to come ;) Stay tuned! Don't forget to review and tell me what you thought about it~