Greetings again, dear readers.
Let me honestly say that I am truly happy after your great responses. It spurred me on to update at a pace I have not adhered to for many months now! Many thanks for reading and reviewing, it is truly what gives me the desire to write and update.
So thank you all.
Regards,
Karldin.
DISCLAIMER: I have never added these before, but I will do so now for a change. I own the plot, but the characters and universe belong to Christopher Paolini.
CHAPTER 8
"They are here, your Majesty. I hope your rather unconventional idea works" said Barden quietly to Palencar. Palencar clapped him on his shoulder reassuringly.
"You know my mind well, Barden. Have faith in me. You do remember how one of my 'unconventional ideas' won us the Battle of Ithro Zhada, do you not?" he asked, and Barden fell silent though a faint anxiety could be detected in his eyes.
Palencar turned to see four glinting specks of light in the beautifully orange horizon of Illirea as they stood upon the tallest battlements which overlooked the entire city. Even after nearly eighty years of this sight, Palencar never failed to be moved by the magnificence of Illirea.
His mother had commissioned Elven architects to reconstruct and renovate the city to its former glory, to entirely remove stains of Galbatorix's dark regime. And so they had. In ten years, the entirety of Illirea had been remade subtly by Elven magic and that had lent a sense of renewal and hope amongst the people.
The specks grew larger, and Palencar's sharp eyes could make out the shape of four large Dragons of different colours. Two dragons sparkled a light shade of green, one was a curious shade of grey and another was brown. Despite himself, Palencar felt a sense of anticipation grow in him. These were indeed not the first Riders he had seen, but these were the first Riders of the newest generation.
"Nighthawks, you have your orders. Acquit yourselves well" said Palencar quietly to the black armoured guards flanking him on either side. It was a legacy from the days of the war, his retaining of the Nighthawks. Nasuada had avoided disbanding them, seeing them as a last line of defence for the monarch. Palencar had seen the wisdom in her decision and had continued recruiting into the Nighthawks, which had become a secret and exclusive order in itself. Only the best were granted entrance into the Nighthawks.
They waited impassively as the four Riders drew gradually nearer. The concussive force of the Dragons' wings was absent, and they seemed to literally glide on the air. Palencar could hear see subjects crowding around in the streets and excitedly pointing at the Four Riders who had entered the city.
With a great rush four huge Dragons landed smoothly in front of Palencar and their Riders dismounted simultaneously. Palencar observed them curiously, noting how they formed up behind the golden-haired elf who walked towards him gracefully.
One human, three elves. The leading one is Elven and he seems to be much older than the others. I can see it in his eyes, came Barden's voice to him. The Nighthawks seemed to tense slightly, gripping the hilts of their swords in a subtle manner. Palencar did not begrudge them their wariness for he had been saved from numerous assassins by that very quality.
The Riders stood before him at last, and the Elf stepped forward and bowed with the grace native to his fair people. The other three Riders too bowed after him, but the Dragons all watched him unblinkingly not even seeming to acknowledge him in any way.
"Greetings and felicitations Palencar, son of Nasuada, High King of the Broddring Kingdom, Steward of the central reaches, Keeper of the peace and Shining King" greeted the lead elf with a respectful voice.
"I bring you the best of wishes from the master of our order, Eragon Kingslayer. I am Nuada" he said of himself. "These are my fellow Riders Barristan" he pointed at the human, "Leya" at the beautiful brown haired elf woman, "and Ildarien" he finished indicating the tall Elf with dark hair.
Palencar inclined his head slightly. The Kingslayer had obviously sent a Rider who was experienced in the labyrinthine game of politics. This meeting would have a great effect on Alagaesian future, of that he was certain.
"Greetings, Nuada Shur'tugal" said Palencar in his deep voice. "We are truly happy to host the Riders once more in Illirea after so long. Eragon-elda has returned to his home at a most important time, his presence is sorely needed by the Kingdom" he said, now looking at the others.
"We bid you welcome as well, Ildarien, Leya and Barristan. What of your Dragons?" he asked, observing the Dragons who sat like living sculptures shining in the setting sun.
I am Domiel, High King. I am bonded to Nuada, Palencar acknowledged the Dragon with a nod. I am Cirnathor, and my Rider is Barristan.
I am Ragnar, and Leya is my Rider.
I am Isidar, and my Rider is Ildarien.
Their voices rumbled in Palencar's mind like falling rocks, and he bowed to them slightly. "This is Barden, my trusted advisor. The Dragonhold has been made ready for accommodation, Nuada Shur'tugal. I am assuming that you remember where that is?" he asked.
Nuada smiled. "You have read us well, Majesty. Yes, I require no direction to the Dragonhold"
"But" said Palencar, hardening his voice slightly. "I wish for all of you to undergo a mental search by my bodyguards. In Illirea we do not allow unknowns to settle, Riders or otherwise. It is in the interest of protocol. I am sure you understand"
Nuada's eyes narrowed at this statement. The Dragons growled menacingly, causing the Nighthawks to assume battle-stances. Palencar sighed, as did Barden. The lords of the land looked alert, all five of them placing their hands on their weapons.
"Are we Riders not trusted anymore, majesty?" questioned Nuada sadly. "We spoke our oaths in the ancient language to Lord Barden and I assumed that should suffice. Our minds hold many things not for general inspection, not to mention the fact that your magician would probably lose a part of himself in us"
Palencar opened his mouth to reply but a Nighthawk beat him to it: "We will not allow the King to be in the vicinity of unknown Riders. Not even Eragon Kingslayer will escape this inspection, as it is our duty to keep our King safe from all potential danger."
At this, Ildarien laughed softly. Even the dragons emitted a grinding sound from their throats, most likely laughter. Nuada smiled grimly, Barristan and Leya looked slightly amused.
Palencar looked at the enthusiastic Nighthawk intently, causing him to fidget at his King's stare. He looked at the still chuckling Ildarien with a questioning expression.
"What amuses you, Rider?" he asked sternly. As King he could not have people laughing at his delegation, after all. Personally he would have loved nothing better than to join in with the joke but he did have royal decorum to maintain.
"I commend your precautions, your Majesty" said Ildarien in a musical voice. But Palencar could see the contempt burning in his eyes as he turned his stare towards the offensive Nighthawk.
"But if a petty human like you delves into my master's mind" he said in an ominous voice, causing the man to fidget even more. "You will die"
The Nighthawks drew their weapons as one at this threat with a steely sound, causing Ildarien to raise his hand in response. Nuada did nothing, only watching Palencar with scrutinizing eyes.
"Enough" said Barden firmly, indicating for the soldiers to sheathe their swords. "I said. ENOUGH!" he roared, and the black outfitted soldiers slowly sheathed their weapons, still glaring at the Riders.
Palencar and Nuada were staring at each other still, not moving a muscle. Barristan and Leya glanced at each other, and Palencar knew instantly that they were communicating by mind. Silence ensued for a few minutes as the two groups endured a tense silence.
"Very well" said Nuada in a deceptively acquiescing voice. "If you wish to test us, then so be it. Nasuada once made the same mistake and lost her soldier to our minds. If you wish so much to commit the same mistakes then I will not stop you"
"Thank you" said Palencar, beckoning the mind-reader among the Nighthawks to the front. "We meant no disrespect to Eragon Kingslayer now did you, Wayland?" he asked turning to the one who had spoken rudely. Wayland shook his head slowly.
"You may begin" said Nuada. One of the Nighthawks stepped up and looked into the Elves eyes. A few minutes later he moved on to Barristan and then Leya.
"They are who they say they are" said the Nighthawk in a slightly dreamy voice. As he moved on to Ildarien, who interrupted and spoke in the ancient language.
"My mind is different, even for elvenkind. Be very careful" he said to the Nighthawk magician, who did not respond. Palencar saw Ildarien stare right into the magician's eyes. A few moments later the magician disengaged, speaking to Palencar in a lost voice.
"They are genuine Riders who mean you no harm" he said in the ancient language, with a gradually weakening voice. Then with a sigh he fainted, falling on to the stone floor with a thud. All was silent for a few moments, but Wayland raised his sword and yelled an order to charge.
Fifty Nighthawks rushed at the Riders with immediately with swords raised. Palencar only looked at the guards disappointedly, not bothering to stop them.
"Thrysta" said the Riders in unison, glaring at the soldiers. The next moment, all fifty Nighthawks were tossed into the air violently and the King was sure he heard bones snap as they fell hard onto the ground. Ildarien's eyes were blazing as he raised his hand towards the stunned Nighthawk commander who had given the order.
"Brisingr!"
A green fireball came into existence between them and roared towards the dumbly staring loud-mouthed soldier. But just before it struck Wayland, Nuada shouted the same spell and slashed his hand through the air. Ildarien's fire was met by another Fireball of the same colour and with a painfully bright flash of light, both fireballs burned themselves out. Nuada laid his hand on the angered Ildarien and said:
"I am sure the King did not wish for this gross insubordination from his men" he said, looking knowingly at the King. "It is for him to deal with his men. It is enough that we defended ourselves"
Palencar looked back at the Rider with appreciation, nodding his head regally in assent. He was thoroughly impressed, though he did not show it. They had incapacitated elite Nighthawks in but a moment, and not caused them any serious harm. Their magical prowess was indeed great.
He looked disappointedly at the groaning fifty Nighthawks.
"Suspend these Nighthawks from service, permanently" said Palencar in a serious voice, addressing Barden who nodded uncertainly. Nuada only stared solemnly at the soldiers writhing with pain on the floor, and moved to heal them. Palencar stopped him from doing so with a raised hand.
"Rider, I appreciate your compassion" he said in a clipped voice. "But their violent and undisciplined behaviour is disgusting…they shamed their King in front of Riders and it cannot be overlooked".
Barden and the lords were staring at the prone bodyguards with a disbelieving expression.
"So leave them be. I cannot apologize enough for their actions. For decades, I have trusted Nighthawks to do the right thing but they have broken it today", said Palencar in a sorrowful voice, glancing at Barden who turned away with a hand over his mouth.
"I regret that our meeting was soured thus" said Nuada, also in a sad voice. "I assume your Majesty is satisfied of our good intentions, at least now?"
"I am" said Palencar. "And I do not hold Ildarien Shur'tugal at fault for my mage's incapacitation. My soldier did continue after your warning"
"Perhaps, your Majesty, we should let the Riders retire? We can meet after tempers have cooled" said Barden diplomatically, turning back to his King. Nuada nodded and at his signal the Riders mounted their Dragons, and veered to the right with a rush of air.
What a way to greet the Riders, thought Palencar wryly as other soldiers came to bear the injured nighthawks away. My mother's stories were true, after all. Fifty Nighthawks could not stop them even with the element of surprise. Wayland played his role well…I will have to congratulate him.
"They are strong, Majesty" said Barden to him, bursting into laughter at last. "And they will disapprove of your little trick test when they find out. Your odd sense of humour will one day get you killed", he guffawed.
Palencar laughed as well, a mischievous expression lighting his face. "I learned much about them and their characters with just that little skirmish, old friend. I have found that in times of true surprise we tend to reveal a lot of ourselves as there is no time for too much thinking, be it any race. "
The lords shook their heads resignedly, knowing the sometimes erratic propensity of their king all too well. Palencar was courageous and noble, but his way of thinking and doing were often too shocking to the normally fastidious and conventional nobility.
"Besides" said Palencar expansively. "Nuada already knew what I was up to, my friend. The Ridersstand up to their legend well. I think I can entrust the safety of my Kingdom to their able hands"
The King and Advisor walked off together, consoling the pitifully groaning Nighthawks as they did. Palencar found himself very satisfied with the Riders' conduct and ability. The Riders were here, and their vaunted prowess and acumen was not just a story after all.
The Riders were here.
…
In the high vaulted halls of Isidar Mithrim, Eragon and Saphira faced a scrying projection that showed the Nine facing them, missing Laetri and Yaela.
"…do you understand, Blodhgarm?" he finished his instructions. Blodhgarm stirred out of his attentive silence, as did the others.
"We hear and obey, Eragon-elda" said Blodhgarm, bowing to him in assent. Eragon stood in his rooms with Saphira as he briefed the Nine about what had transpired since his return to Alagaesia. It had taken the better part of an hour to describe to them the state of Alagaesia as he perceived it, and they were alarmed to say the least.
"How many younglings have completed the regimen since I left?" asked Eragon. Invida answered, a look of satisfaction on her face. "Five younglings have completed the regimen, Eragon-elda. They just did so yesterday…the task of filling buckets with holes in them irritated them beyond measure it seems", she said.
Eragon frowned, saddened by the fact that he had to leave. There was a reason he had not taken apprentices since Dusan and Alanna…he loved the younglings too much. Teaching children, he found, gave him a happiness nothing else could.
"How is Varda?" he asked softly. Blodhgarm's face too showed a sadness that was mirrored by all his fellows. Varda was barely six years old, and Eragon was told by the Eldunari that she was most likely the youngest Rider to be chosen for several centuries. She was a young human girl…and she had wormed her way into Eragon's heart in a matter of months.
She had become a favourite of the Nine and the other Riders with her quick mind and enormous talent. But to him and Saphira, Varda and her little Dragon had become something more.
"She was inconsolable when you left, Eragon-elda" said Blodhgarm sadly. "But she gathered herself within an hour. Never have I seen such an extraordinary human child, she will indeed be a treasure to our order. Also, she was one of the five younglings who completed the regimen yesterday"
"The masters have been informed, and the choosing of apprentices will happen tomorrow" said Invida, and in her face and the faces of all her fellows shone a pride and satisfaction he knew was mirrored in his own.
Eragon was amazed once more by Varda's potential…the child was indeed extraordinary. He could feel the Eldunari join minds with him and Saphira urgently, and Umaroth spoke to him in a thundering voice.
Eragon and Saphira…listen carefully. You must not make the same mistakes the old Order did. You and you alone must take Varda as an apprentice, in this duty you must not fail. Galbatorix was much the same in this regard…at barely ten years he could complete the regimen. Riders with such potential must be nurtured in the right manner, and Varda will grow best and be a light for our order only under your tutelage.
Eragon nodded with happiness, and Saphira too growled in assent. Somehow, he always knew Varda would be his apprentice from the moment he set eyes on her. He turned to Blodhgarm who was watching him very carefully.
"Send Varda to Farthen Dur, Blodhgarm. Send her and her Dragon to Farthen Dur in exactly two days…I will be waiting to take her on as my apprentice" he said firmly. Blodhgarm and the others gasped softly, for eighty years Eragon had instructed all students equally and had not taken on an apprentice.
But Blodhgarm nodded after a few moments of stupefaction. "Varda is indeed special. We will make her ready for the journey…she will reach you as you have specified" said the furry elf.
"Is there anything else, Eragon-elda? The hour of history approaches, and we must make haste to our students, I am afraid" said Invida apologetically. Eragon shook his head, letting them go with a last word.
"Remember my warnings, all of you. Aiedail must be protected at all costs. Take the precautions as I told you…I leave the Order in your able hands" finished Eragon. The eight elves bowed in unison, and the scrying surface winked out of existence softly. Eragon turned to Saphira with pure happiness upon his face.
Varda is coming here, Saphira! He crowed to his Dragon, all dignity forgotten as he leaped twenty feet into the air to land on his Dragon's huge tail. He had thought that the young girl would not complete the Regimen for at least another three years, and had to leave her at Aiedail with not even a goodbye thanks to his disability.
Eragon, said Saphira amused at his exuberance. She treasured moments such as these where Eragon's youthful and innocent self showed, it gave her hope that he was healing gradually from his sacrifice. Eragon, my tail tickles when you keep jumping on it that way!She said to him gently. Still Eragon persisted, doing a jerky dance that had her guffawing deeply.
She could feel Sahloknir's amusement as well through the bond Eragon shared with him. Ebrithil, stop immediately or I will show Laetri your ridiculous dance said Sahloknir urbanely causing Eragon to stop in an awkward position, both hands raised and right leg high up in the air.
Saphira swished her tail, and he landed on the ground gracefully on his two feet. Eragon looked at his laughing Dragon indignantly, feeling her happiness burgeon like a vast tide at his own.
I love you, Eragon, she said in a fond voice and drew him to her side with her wings. Eragon laid his head on her side, his happiness at Varda's impending arrival even outshining his sadness at Arya's situation for a few moments. That girl had changed him irrevocably for the better, had showed him the beauty of viewing the world with a child's innocence and love.
We will turn her into a Rider of the likes this world has never seen, won't we, Saphira? he asked his partner with resolve. He could feel Saphira's agreement at his statement.
That we will, little one. But someone is knocking on the door for several minutes, I believe. You must go open it before the dwarves assume something is amiss, she said to him.
He walked to the door with a slightly ashamed expression, for Blodhgarm's news had given him happiness he had felt rarely. Before they knocked again he pulled it open and saw a dwarf in full armour bow down to him.
"I am Kestor, Argetlam, and I have been ordered to give you a message. King Orik informs you that he wishes for you to meet the Elven ambassador to the Dwarven Kingdom, if you are unoccupied"
Eragon's expression smoothed and he nodded slightly. It was time for him to start taking a direct hand in Alagaesian matters. He only had to wait for Arya to wake, and then he could join his Riders in Illirea to build the Riders once more in this land.
Shall we go, Saphira?
Yes we shall, Little one, said Saphira as she drifted into the air with a mighty thrust of her wings. "Thank you, Kestor" Eragon acknowledged the messenger who bowed low; Eragon cracked his neck and with a running start he ran up the wall for thirty feet and jumped to several pillars effortlessly, gaining height as he did so.
He seems to be moderately impressed, observed Eragon of Kestor when he landed accurately on the saddle as Saphira passed him by somewhere near the hundred feet high ceiling. Kestor watched him with a worshipping expression, something that made him more than a little uncomfortable.
Saphira snorted to him as she soared out of Isidar Mithrim and gained speed.
Sometimes, I wonder what happened to my shy and modest Rider who blushed like a rose when he received the smallest compliment, she said as they flew like an arrow towards Tronjheim, ignoring Eragon's fervent protests to the contrary.
….
"Ah, Eragon. Come in, come in! I called you early so we could speak for a bit before the Elven ambassador arrives" called Orik heartily as he saw Eragon standing at the door to his chambers. Eragon walked in slowly, admiring the change in Orik's rooms. It seemed that his foster brother had acquired a taste for the finer things in life over the years. Fairths decorated his polished marble walls elegantly, most of them depicting dwarven life in ways that interested Eragon. A rich carpet of Kuastan design adorned the floor, woven with golden thread.
His eyes sparkled merrily as he saw a cabinet of fine wines that the King had collected. He never knew that dwarves drank anything but ale or mead, but once again Orik had surprised him. He glanced at Orik, who looked rather sheepish at the opulence of his quarters. Eragon raised a brow at him, indicating the wines.
"I did not know that you sampled such beautiful wines, Orik" he said with surprise. Brewing had become a hobby of his at Aiedail…his students were quite convinced that he had mastered the art thoroughly for his last batch had become the talk of the town. Also, he had read many books about the fine Vintages in Alagaesia and had desired to sample them for many years.
For nearly ten years now, he had studied much of the subject of brewing and he could proudly say that he was a connoisseur of exquisite taste. At least, that was what the Elves told him.
"Hah!" snorted Orik, dismissing the notion. "Hvedra and mine aunt Vardrun again, those two convinced me to commission all these…these unnecessary displays of wealth!" he said in a faintly outraged voice.
"I don't care" said Orik and strode to the cabinet and pulled out a beautifully blown glass flask. He glared at the thing and declared: "I don't care if this Belatonian Red were brewed by Killian Honningsbrew during the war of the Riders! For us Knurlan, ale and mead are enough is it not?" he said, pausing for a moment in his harangue.
"Is it not, Eragon?" he asked again, passionately.
Eragon was staring at the bottle with a reverent expression. He could also feel Saphira's awe as Orik identified the precious wine he held so angrily in his hands. Slowly, he stepped forward towards Orik, gently divesting him of the flask and caressed the symbol over its front.
"Orik you have no idea what this is, do you?" he whispered. Orik looked stymied for a moment, watching a strange mood come over Eragon.
"Of course I do, Eragon. 'Tis a worthless bottle of old wine I bought for three bags of bright gold at mine Grimstcarvloss' insistence!" said Orik, bemused by Eragon who was slowly polishing the bottle with a spell that flowed out of his hand. When he was convinced that the flask shone to his satisfaction, Eragon sat slowly in a chair and examined the bottle slowly, admiring its contents.
Little one, you need to get that from Orik somehow, said Saphira in a fervent voice. Eragon knew that his wine-loving Dragon was as fanatic about these matters as he was. Saphira had long since graduated from quaffing ale, to sampling wine. Not that she did not enjoy a barrel or ten of ale occasionally, but she had developed an odd appreciation for the finer brews.
Eragon turned to Orik slowly, a cunning expression upon his face. It was not an expression Orik could say he enjoyed upon his brother's face. Eragon spoke in the ancient language now, looking intently at Orik.
"You see that cabinet there as worthless, do you not?"
Orik nodded emphatically, and replied in kind. "Beyond worthless. I know what you are thinking, I would gladly give them to you but for-"
"Hvedra" they both said, nodding. Shunting aside the utter amusement he felt from Laetri and Sahloknir, he focused upon his task. Saphira was also quiet in his mind, waiting with anticipation.
"Do you remember the light I brought down on your city when I entered it?" asked Eragon, his eyes never leaving Orik's. "It gave Farthen Dur a very unique change. I am assuming your gratefulness will extend to gifting me that entire cabinet in appreciation of my actions"
"What actions be those?" asked Orik curiously.
"That light I cast was special, it gave Farthen Dur's soil a fertility that can only be matched by the heartlands of the Kingdom" said Eragon in an offhand voice watching Orik's face split by a beaming smile, all the jesting in his eyes replaced by gratitude.
"Eragon, I would have given you those wines anyway" he said in a serious voice, clasping Eragon's arm tightly. "For what you have done for us I cannot thank you enough, my brother. What else would you ask of me? Anything within my power, I will give you!"
"Just the wines will do, thank you" said Eragon with equal seriousness. Orik nodded, "Then they are yours, brother!"
They could hear Saphira's roar of joy high in Tronjheim, and Eragon smiled as well. He could hear elven laughter behind him and he found the sound somewhat familiar. As he turned to face what must be the Elven Ambassador, his eyes widened slightly.
"Vanir?"
His old rival had lost his unwarranted haughtiness completely, and was dressed in robes of rich silk looking every inch the aristocratic elf. Vanir stepped forth, bowing to both Orik and Eragon.
"Atra esterni ono thelduin, Orik Konungr and Eragon Kingslayer" he said respectfully. Orik did not bother to return the elven greeting, instead clapping Vanir heavily on his back. Eragon was surprised that Vanir did not take offense at that…but he could see that Vanir was used to dwarven culture.
"Vanir, it has been a long time" said Eragon warmly as the elf sat himself down with Orik. Vanir inclined his head, looking pleased with their reunion.
"It has indeed, Eragon Shadeslayer. I see you have changed enormously. I once called you worthy of the title Rider, but just by looking at you I can tell: You are also a worthy leader of the Riders" he praised Eragon, who smiled faintly. He floated the bottle of Belatonian Red back to the cabinet and set it gently on its rightful place.
Vanir looked highly amused at his care. "I never thought I would see Eragon Kingslayer barter like an old woman for a bottle of wine!" he said loudly, causing Orik to grin and Eragon to look at him in shock. He even felt Saphira's utter shock at this changed Vanir.
"Vanir, I think Orik has converted you" he said gravely, with mirth dancing in his eyes. Vanir nodded, and the three of them laughed uproariously. Eragon felt lighter than ever, all his cares and concerns forgotten for the moment. More than ever, he was thankful for his Riders who forced him to return.
"Dwarves, Eragon-elda" said Vanir, shaking his head with a full smile. "I have lived much of the last hundred years with them, and I can say honestly that I enjoy being among them. These days I quaff more mead than I ever did Faelnirv" he said. Eragon looked at him with an amazed expression, shaking his head once more.
"Vanir my friend, you have changed much from the uptight elf that accosted me in my youth. The Dwarves have done you good, I believe" he said in his melodious voice. Vanir's and Orik's faces assumed nostalgic expressions as he seemed to remember the old days.
After a few moments, Vanir looked at them all seriously. "I just visited the Queen, she seemed to be awake though a little disoriented. What happened to her?" he asked with a concerned expression.
This day is good for us, thought Eragon feeling Saphira's agreement. Varda was coming to him, he got a selection of extremely fine wines, he met Vanir after all this time and now Arya had awakened. He turned to Vanir and said:
"Private matters, my friend. I would tell you but her Majesty would not appreciate the indiscretion" he said softly. "Ah", said Vanir with an understanding expression. Orik now turned to Vanir with a serious expression.
"What news from Galfni?" he asked, leaning forward. Vanir remained silent for a moment, and then spoke:
"Az Sweldn rak Anhuin is stirring again, your Majesty. They have started to monopolize several markets in Buragh and Galfni, and have begun to muster support from several clans. Whatever they are planning cannot be good" he said intently, glancing at Eragon.
Eragon sighed resignedly; it appeared that he would never be free of those particular dwarves. No doubt it was in response to his arrival that they were stirring up all this trouble.
"Orik, those Knurlan will never leave me alone" he said. "Word must have reached them of my arrival. The foolish oath they swore in Tarnag those years ago is still in force, I assume?"
"You assume correctly" said Orik with an expression of distaste. "They are your blood-enemies despite the fact that you killed Galbatorix. Among Knurlan you will certainly have that one source of opposition" he said, and faced Vanir again.
"What products are they monopolizing mainly?"
"Weapons and Forge material" said Vanir grimly. "My people cannot trace the money back to their clan coffers officially, but we picked thoughts out of their minds that lead us to believe of their culpability in the matter"
"This is peacetime to a large extent" said Eragon thoughtfully. "The only reason anyone would purchase weapons is because they would want to start violence of some kind. We arrived just on time, it seems"
Then he looked curiously at both Vanir and Orik.
"If I may ask, why is the Ambassador of the elves investigating such happenings for the Dwarven King in his own Kingdom?"
Orik grinned. "Vanir was bored of all the formalities after a few years. Years! Then he came to me with the offer of performing such services occasionally, on the condition that he would tell Arya what was relevant to the Elven nation. It has worked out well"
"I can see that" said Eragon. Then he straightened, questing with his mind for Arya and Laetri and found them in a matter of moments.
I have been informed that the Queen is awake, and I cannot adequately convey my satisfaction at the news. Your Majesty, can you please join us in King Orik's chambers if you are able? It is time for me to disclose what the spirits divulged to me. I await you and Laetri to resume our discussions.
He felt Arya's acknowledgement, and Laetri's.
We will be there soon, Eragon-elda.
"Orik, I have important news. As long as you are here, you might also listen to this Vanir" said Eragon. He could hear footsteps echoing slightly through the hallways and he knew Arya was here with Laetri. Surely enough, the door swung open and let Laetri and the elf-queen inside.
Eragon could see something changed in Arya's face…she appeared to have made some sort of decision, and the conflict appeared to have left her eyes as she looked at him with a calm expression. Laetri smiled at him, glancing once at the cabinet of wines.
He nodded to them, and received a nod in return.
Vanir rose along with Orik, and after the customary exchange of courtesies Arya and Laetri sat themselves on Eragon's left and right respectively. They could feel the Dragons' mind join with theirs and solemnity bled into the air.
Laetri raised her hand, and quietly incanted spells of warding and concealment at Eragon's request. They waited as Eragon closed his eyes for a few moments, before he opened them and glanced at the space next to their table.
…..
Palencar sat in his throne-like chair, staring at the Riders who had seated themselves around him. Barden seemed to be right, they seemed to be rather miffed with him for they had extended to him only the exact amount of courtesy necessary and not an inch more. In an effort to mollify them, he had ordered the general populace to respect the privacy of the Riders until such a time they chose otherwise.
He could see wariness in their eyes as they subtly looked around the room, watching for traps or ambushes. But Nuada, he could see, was a consummate politician, and true to his salt he addressed Palencar with a polite voice.
"Your Majesty, I hope the Nighthawks are all fine. But their incompetence is astounding. I hope you really did suspend them from service"
Palencar's eyes flashed as he leaned forward with an interested expression.
"Oh? Then tell me, Nuada Shur'tugal. How would you have approached the situation if you were one of the nighthawks today?" he asked coolly. He knew and the Riders knew well the fact that the attack, though potentially lethal was only a test. Palencar was still impressed with Nuada's ability to read the situation so accurately, no doubt he was an elf who was very old.
"Fifty soldiers attacking four Riders and Dragons is foolishness, High King" said Nuada quietly. "I doubt even three hundred of your Nighthawks can attack us and hope to live, even with the element of surprise. This brings to light one single thing, something that should have been rectified long ago"
"And what problem is it that you see?"
"Your protection is flimsy" said Nuada flatly. "There are beings in Alagaesia who, if necessary, can sweep aside those poor Nighthawks with even more ease than we did. You might be protected against human intrigue but you are definitely not protected against beings whose blood sing with magic"
Palencar's face had grown serious. "I am more protected than you may believe, Nuada Shur'tugal. Besides, how would you offer a solution to the problem you perceive? Surely not with a Rider who would guard me at all times" he said with a slight scoff.
Nuada clasped his hands, staring seriously at the king.
"That is exactly what we are offering, Majesty" he said. Palencar's eyes widened and Barden gasped.
"We are offering to let Barristan stay with you, to protect you at all times. I cannot emphasize this point strongly enough…you are vulnerable, and we cannot have you slain by those who wish to break the peace. You are far too important to the stability of this land!"
"I see. I am truly grateful for your concern about my person, but I wish for you to tell me the truth. What threatens my kingdom?" he asked in an intent voice. He picked up Nuada's hints easily enough.
"We are ready, Nuada" said Ildarien softly to Nuada, who nodded to him. Palencar watched impassively as Ildarien cast a spell that created a reflective surface, spanning ten feet by ten.
"Majesty, It is not my place to tell you that piece of news. Eragon-elda has contacted us now and wishes to speak with you personally" said Nuada, indicating the silver coloured screen upon which colours were spreading chaotically before resolving into a room he knew all too well.
Orik's personal chambers came into view, but this time he did not even look at the Fairths or at the wine cabinet. He did not even fully register the other Queen Arya and the Elven ambassador, nor did he see properly the extremely beautiful Elven woman standing next to the person of his scrutiny.
No, he stared directly at the one man who was at the centre of it all and even he could not stop a sense of awe rising in his chest. This man was history itself, the Lightbringer who had delivered Alagaesia from its darkest pit. His mother's stories did not even capture a small part of the reality.
Eragon Kingslayer stood before him, clearly visible through the projection. Nasuada had told him everything she knew about Eragon, literally everything. She was of the sincerest belief that a ruler needed to be armed with all the information he could acquire, for ignorance was the bane of all stability.
As he observed the burnished mane of silver hair that fell to the lead Rider's broad shoulders, his lithe and graceful body clothed in pure white elven silk, the sword Brisingr strapped to his waist and most of all, his wise and noble face shining with wisdom and strength…Palencar immediately tried to destroy his preconceptions about Eragon Kingslayer. The man who stood before him was nothing like what Nasuada had described to him…no he was not.
To Palencar's experienced and world-weary eyes, Eragon Kingslayer seemed to exude such a deep wisdom and authority that he felt as if he were a small child once more, learning at his father's feet. His usual flippant behaviour would have to be discarded, for he was facing a true Rider.
He only stared with amazed eyes at Eragon, and shook himself as he saw Arya and the Elven woman staring at him with an amused look. Eragon looked at him solemnly, and Palencar inclined his head in respect. If there was anyone who he could say exceeded him in nobility and stature, it was this man and the Queen of the Elven race.
"Hail Eragon Shur'tugal, Rider of Saphira, destroyer of Galbatorix, Shadeslayer, Lightbringer and Darksbane" he said, standing up to greet the Legendary Rider. He could see Barden and all the Riders bowing to the Lead Rider, who acknowledged them all with simple nods and smiles before he turned his ageless eyes upon Palencar.
"Hail Palencar, High King of the Broddring kingdom. I am glad that we could meet at last. Your parents live on in you, it seems" he said in a clear and musical voice, and Palencar felt a sense of satisfaction at the compliment. It was indeed high praise to be compared to his great parents by one who knew them so well.
"Palencar, it has been a while since I last saw you. You have certainly matured from the bloodthirsty young man I saved at the battle of Ithro-Zhada" said Arya with an open smile. Palencar smiled back heartily, hiding his sudden insecurity at Eragon's presence.
"Queen Arya, it is nice to meet you as well. And King Orik, a great pleasure" he said to his fellow royalty. "None of that now, Palencar" said Orik gruffly. Palencar laughed, wanting to thump Orik on his back but unable to.
"Your Majesty, a great pleasure to see you again" said Vanir. Palencar nodded to him, and looked upon the silent elf-woman who sat at the Kingslayer's right. He had always thought Queen Arya to be the most beautiful female, but this elf-maid was just as beautiful.
Where Arya's hair was a shining raven colour, this woman's hair was a burnished silver that framed her heart-shaped face and presumably continued to her waist. Despite being a happily married man, Palencar's heart beat faster as he saw her absolutely perfect form that looked like desire itself taken human shape. Her pale skin shone faintly and her large eyes were an irresistibly bright blue. She was a vision of perfect Elven beauty but he was shaken out of his appreciation as he saw out of the corner of his eye Barden stare gormlessly at the elf-maid.
He kicked his advisor hard under the table, and chuckled silently as Barden stared at him with a hurt look. Eragon however indicated the lovely elf-woman and said:
"This is Laetri, Rider of Sahloknir and one of the nine Elves who accompanied me to Aiedail a hundred years ago" he introduced her. Laetri nodded regally to him, but with a faint smile playing upon her lips.
An elfin Rider with enormous battle experience. The Kingslayer seems to rely on her, he thought to himself as Eragon's presence filled the room even from so far away. He could feel a very powerful and ancient mind that was distinctly not human…amazement ran through him in a fresh wave as the Dragon Saphira addressed him directly:
It is a pleasure to meet Nasuada's hatchling. Greetings, King Palencar, she said in a rich and ancient voice. Palencar replied in kind:
It is a great honour, queen of the skies; he replied in the ancient language and felt Saphira's pleasure. Eragon stood up, including both rooms in his encompassing stare.
"The rulers of the races have met at last, save for Nar Garzhvog" he said solemnly. Palencar's study was very quiet as they heard the Kingslayer's seriousness in his tone, and paid the utmost attention.
"I have news of great import to share with you all. It concerns the activities of a race that mostly does not interfere with the other races" said Eragon, steepling his fingers.
"But in the last century, they have been involved in one way or another. After I slew Galbatorix, the nations have let their guard down and have ignored the fact that darkness can never truly be destroyed" he continued in the same tone, glancing from one face to another.
"That is why it falls to the Riders once more to root out evil wherever it may have hidden. Listen carefully, rulers of Alagaesia, to the information I have gleaned from my recent activities"
The three monarchs leaned closer, listening with intent as the Kingslayer elaborated carefully upon his findings and speaking in the ancient tongue. Their alarm grew slowly as they heard the truths from him, even Arya's eyes showed a hint of disturbance.
One thing was clear: They were being threatened once more.