Disclaimer: Not mine. D'awww!
I finished this early since I'm on a roll and I do want to keep updating as soon as possible! I've been going through 15 and 20 hours of work per day lately and it's killing me, so I'm doing as much writing as I can during meal breaks, while the officemate sitting beside me isn't around. Seriously, I feel awkward if someone peers at my laptop/PC screen, whether it's while I'm working or while writing something. Him constantly singing along or beatboxing to any music that plays and invading my personal space is seriously fraying my patience.
I was so exhausted when I uploaded Bloodlines and didn't realize that it was the 28th, so I'm greeting you guys a... Happy Thanksgiving Day! even though I don't live anywhere near there. :D What do roasted turkeys taste like? Turkeys cost a lot in here though some people raise them, but I haven't tasted one before...
So without any further delay...
The wind-night-cold-in-the-mountains was blowing that night. Glaedr-of-the-gold-scales was a happy dragon. He led a good life. Partner-of-his-mind-and-heart-Oromis chose two fledgeling Shur'tugal to take under his wing, and the two young two-legs-round-ears-boys were showing a lot of promise. His mate, the wild dragoness Mimerna-blood-fang just laid five eggs – three of which were to be given to the partners-of-his-kin-Riders.
He wished that he would not be busy enough not to see those three younglings hatching for their Riders. Maybe he could even ask if he and Oromis could be the ones to escort those eggs throughout the land of the two-legs-pointy-ears.
He knew that his little ones will grow up to be fearsome hunters.
Chapter 2: Power Plays
Arya snapped out of her sleep and sat up from her bed. A shuttered lantern glowed dimly in one corner, its blue-white light clashing with Firnen's emerald scales. The mighty dragon was proud of his ability to breathe fire, and did his best to showcase it at every possible time. The flames were hot enough to melt metal and yet the more amazing fact was that they did no damage to Firnen's mouth and teeth.
She really and truly regretted the destruction of Isidar Mithrim, especially since she played a part in it along with Katrina and the six dragons. Since it was shattered, the Riders and their dragons were unable to stay in the dragonhold above it anymore. That was why they were given quarters inside an old guardroom that was large enough. The low ceiling and dark walls made it cozy enough.
As soon as Arya remembered the previous day's events, she felt anguished once more. She briefly knew Ajihad and yet she knew that he was a great person. Faolin praised him often back in Ellesmera. Other elves may have known more about controlling emotions but she let her sorrow run freely. She wished that they arrived on time – wished that something could have been done instead of watching the bloodshed. Not even Faolin and Brom managed to catch an Urgal and hold it responsible. Truth be told, Arya was just glad that none of them got hurt. She fought back the tears that were threatening to spill. She had to reserve them for the funeral, else she might not be able to attend at all and just lie down in sadness all day.
"I wish that it wasn't so," Katrina said on the bed to the left of Arya's. She was staring at the ceiling blankly. "You do realize that the death of Durza was only through sheer luck, right?"
"Luck and timing," agreed Arya. She glanced at the empty bed to her right, and the golden dragon sleeping by its foot. Nasuada was with her brother Melikir since Ajihad's death, making arrangements for the funeral. "She will be fine. It takes time, but she'll heal. I did."
"D-did you lose your father?" Katrina asked.
"I was ten years old. Six years have passed since then, but it still feels like my father's just there, playing hide-and-seek like in the old days. He was killed when an elven base at the edge of Du Weldenvarden was besieged by one of the Forsworn – an elf named Kialandi."
"I'm very sorry for that."
"Don't be." Arya smiled as Firnen stirred. "Dwelling in the past isn't good."
Good morning, little Riders, the emerald dragon said drowsily. I'm hungry.
"You dragons are always hungry," Katrina complained.
There's nothing wrong with a perfectly healthy dragon who wants more food! Solaris' eyes opened lazily. We need to keep eating if we wish to maintain our strength and keep growing!
"Dragons and food," Eragon groaned from the other side of the room, where the boys' beds were positioned. "We'll need to learn more if we're going to face more Shades or enemy Riders, right?"
"That's why we need to leave for Ellesmera soon – though I really don't know this Mourning Sage," replied Arya. "Yesterday was so terrible. How did the sentries not know about the Urgals? It's all so very strange."
"The Twins. I'm sure about that," growled Murtagh. He sat up, trying to flatten his messy hair. "I'll kill them with my bare hands."
"Now, now, you're just saying that because of…" Eragon began before Murtagh covered his mouth.
Now, now, chided Luneria. We've got time for that later. Let's eat breakfast now and learn of the Varden's plans. I'm sure that we will be very busy today and it's not going to be pleasant.
Arya prepared for the day ahead, arming herself with both her sword, Jordskalv, and her bow. She recalled the things that transpired in Tronjheim. Jormundur helped Ajihad's children place his body somewhere it could rest in until the funeral, while Orik rushed off to tell his king and uncle, Hrothgar, of the news.
There was a cry, and Eragon bent double in pain. He fell to the floor with a yelp as he tried to reach his back. Murtagh and Roran knelt by him, trying to calm him down. Arya and Katrina steadied Eragon, their hands on his shoulders. The fit took a few minutes – and all that they could do was to share his pain by linking with his mind.
When his fit subsided, Eragon was drenched in sweat. He lay on the floor, gasping. "I'm sorry," he groaned after regaining his breath. Saphira's nose touched his arm gently. "It was worse this time." He sat up and put a hand on his scar.
"Don't be," muttered Murtagh. "Are you sure that you will come with us?"
Eragon nodded. "I have to. It's our obligation as Riders and dragons to be involved in the fate of the Varden and help it in choosing a new leader. We have a great authority in the Varden now, and we have to use it wisely."
Arya pursed her lips, refusing to voice out her suggestion for Eragon to lie down for a while. It might hurt his pride, after all. She caught Firnen staring. I'm worried about him, that's all. He's a good friend and it's unfair for him to go through this.
I know, but nothing is fair for us. Firnen looked away. We're just lucky that the Twins aren't around to seek power.
They'll probably be killed on sight, agreed Arya.
The nearest kitchen felt like a long way away because of the many people that bowed to them with murmurs of "Argetlam" and "Shadeslayers." Even many of the dwarves began greeting them with respect already. The humans that they passed all looked haunted and sorrowful. Every sight of women in black, faces covered in lace veils, felt like a punch in Arya's gut.
They ate quickly and quietly, the dragons keeping away anyone who wanted to approach them. Solaris even joined them as she wanted to give her grieving Rider some space. Arya could barely taste the mushroom stew and the fresh bread.
Who do you think will take Ajihad's place? Roran asked.
His blessing to us may mean that he wanted one of us to take his place, but that doesn't seem wise, commented Murtagh. I mean, it will only bring us trouble and we know nothing about leading.
Ajihad did say that Jormundur was his right-hand man, so that means that he was trusted enough, right? Katrina leaned against the wall. We don't know much about Varden's other leaders, we've only been here for a week.
We will have to make decisions based on feelings – impressions. Saphira sounded worried. Nasuada could help us though. Solaris, do you know anything about the other people here?
Not much. I was very little when we left. The golden dragon paused, apparently trying to remember her partner's words. Jormundur seems trustworthy enough, and it's a shame that Brom refuses leadership. Nasuada doesn't trust the Council of Elders though.
Arya heard of them before, but she never met them either. Who are they?
Exactly what I said. They're a council of elder members in the Varden, acting as advisers to any leader who is currently in position. Their position means that they will always have a say in any major decision that the leader will make. They're power-hungry fools who tried to use Ajihad for their ambitions but… he's too clever.
That was the problem. If they could manipulate the selection of the next leader then… Firnen closed his eyes. Trouble, trouble, trouble.
That's not even including the dwarves, Askanir mentally groaned. Hrothgar is good and is an ally of the Varden, but if the dwarf clans oppose him then they may use his power to place an easily manipulated leader.
A girl stood nearby, dressed in a dark wool tunic and breeches. She looked like she was at least a year younger than the Riders, and it showed on her slender form. Her hair was a rust-brown shade. She saw many people with hair like that during her brief visit to Carvahall, and the male Riders from the village also had the same hair color. It must have been a common trait for humans from the Palancar Valley. Her eyes were a deep, charcoal-gray shade. She kept glancing at the dragons, as if afraid that they would eat her.
"What is it?" Katrina asked with a warm smile.
The girl flushed and bowed. "Argetlam, Shadeslayers… you have been summoned by the Council of Elders." She smiled. "It is a great honor!"
Eragon and Murtagh watched her, curiosity evident in their eyes. "Are you going to lead us to them?" the elder brother asked.
"Yes, I am, Shadeslayer."
The Riders stood up and left their finished meal. The girl admired their swords with shining eyes before looking away, blushing.
"What's your name?" Arya asked, trying to make the girl feel comfortable. Being an elf though, she doubted that she could make any human feel comfortable – aside from her friends and Brom, of course.
"Aesir. M-my name is Aesir," the girl replied.
"That's a beautiful name." Arya put a hand on her shoulder. "Don't be afraid of us, understand? We're friends."
Aesir smiled and she began walking more confidently. She pushed a convex stone door open without much effort. They stood inside a circular room that had a blue roof painted with vivid constellations. There was a round marble table in the middle bearing the crest of Durgrimst Ingeitum. Seated there were Jormundur and four other people. There was one tall man and another who was quite portly. One of the women had elaborately painted cheeks, while the other looked more matronly – though she was armed with a dagger.
The door opened once more and the a pale-faced boy entered, escorting Brom and Nasuada inside. Their mentor gave Aesir a speculative look as he marched towards the table, arms crossed.
Jormundur nodded to the two messengers. "Aesir, Jarsha, you may go," he said. He glanced at the other people seated around the table. "I have no idea what you're playing at, turning Aesir into an errand girl. She is one of our best archers, not some messenger child."
None of the other Elders replied. They just gave Jormundur a sullen look. Brom crossed his arms. "Will any of you blasted old bag of bones tell me just what you want from us?" he asked irritably. "I have so many things to do today, and you're using up my time. I expected better from you – especially you, Jormundur."
"I detest this as much as you do," replied Jormundur. He gave Brom a long-suffering look.
Brom sighed. "Very well. My young Riders – the five who have never met them, at least – meet Umerth," the tall man; "Falberd," the portly man; "Sabrae, and Elessari," the two women.
"Thank you for coming today, young Riders." Jormundur glanced irritably at the other Elders. "I know that you are still grieving."
"Young Riders? And what of me?" Brom asked.
"You know what I mean, old friend," Jormundur said with a chuckle.
Brom laughed heartily. Once again, he sounded like he did back when they were still traveling. "Ah, good one." He ignored the glares coming from the rest of the council.
Roran just met them, and he already disliked the other members of the Council of Elders. "Were the Twins part of this?" he asked, simply to annoy them.
Sabrae gave him a withering look as she tapped a long fingernail on the table. "They are far, far worse than slime – leeches that work only for themselves. They did not wish to serve the Varden and thus had no place in the council." Her perfume reeked. The smell was like that of a rotting flower, and Roran felt the urge to retch.
"Their betrayal is most unfortunate but it is not what we are here for," Jormundur said. "The recent events brought a crisis upon us, and we must deal with it in the fastest, best way that we can. We need to choose Ajihad's successor before someone else does. King Hrothgar already conveyed his condolences, and while he is a most gracious host, he may already be having plans. The magic users of Du Vrangr Gata are also another concern as we can't predict their actions even if most of them are loyal to the Varden. They might oppose our authority for their own desires. It is why we need your help in making Ajihad's successor legitimate."
"I don't know what you're playing at," Brom muttered, glaring at the other Elders.
Falberd straightened up. "We have chosen the person whom we shall support, and we wish for you to keep anything discussed in here as a secret – whether you agree or disagree with us."
That sounds ridiculous. Roran glanced at the others – including Brom.
We don't know what they're playing at yet, Brom growled. We'll have to gamble it. After all, it seems like they've forgotten that your dragons are intelligent and aren't asking promises from them. He glanced at the council with hardened eyes. "We promise."
"We wish for you, Brom, to lead the Varden." Elessari gave Jormundur a dirty look. "And if it is not possible for you to take charge then we shall support Melikir."
But – but he's so young, Nasuada exclaimed. Father has been instructing him but… what is there for them to gain?
He's like your father, commented Askanir. He has a core of steel.
"I refuse to take charge of the Varden," barked Brom. "I understand my qualification, but why Melikir? After all, Ajihad trusts you enough."
"We are old friends, nothing more," Jormundur said, "and besides, I am a member of the council. We support each other and it would be madness for one of us to rise above the rest."
He would have made a good leader, noted Brom. The lack of support from the rest of the council holds him back. See how they look at him? He is like a wolf in a pack of jackals.
"My brother has no experience," Nasuada complained.
Elessari smiled – it was sweet and venomous. "I've been here for seven years when your parents arrived. I have watched you three grow up to be fine young warriors and diplomats. Your brother lacks confidence but he is a good figure to lead the Varden. The people will love him. He is such a sweet, caring young man. As for experience, my friends and I are here to show the way. He won't be lacking in guidance."
They'll use him as a puppet, Roran realized.
Aye, and it is foolish of them to think that Brom will let it happen, Askanir agreed.
"Ajihad's funeral will be in two days," added Umerth, blatantly ignoring Nasuada's wince. "We plan to appoint Melikir directly after that."
"You haven't asked him yet!" wailed Nasuada.
"He will surely agree. We hope that you would all be present then, so not even Hrothgar will complain. You will also swear fealty to the Varden after that – even you, elf. That will return the Varden's confidence and prevent any splintering in this organization."
Fealty! Murtagh exclaimed.
To the Varden, not Melikir, Katrina replied.
Eragon's eyes widened. They want to appoint him instead of asking us – or Brom, even Faolin. That would mean acknowledging that one of us has more power than everyone else in the Varden. That will also show their superiority to Melikir, control us through fealty and have six Riders – plus Brom – to endorse him publicly – and one of them is even an elf.
The last one may not be so important. Riders have no more ties to their race as a whole – only to the Order of Riders, Arya said.
But still…
"And if we do not wish to do so?" asked Brom.
"It would be terrible," Falberd said. "It would mean that the most influential in the Varden do not approve of young Melikir's leadership. It would be a shame for him to realize that they do not see him fit to serve our organization."
"Tricky, tricky, these games you wish to play." Brom gave the Riders a long look. "We will attend the appointment and assure you of nothing more."
"As you wish," Jormundur said, an apologetic look on his face once more. "Now, we must fetch Melikir – and inform Faolin. The elves, of course, must also know of our decision." He called for Jarsha to call for the two, and the room fell into an uncomfortable silence.
They're trying to back us into a corner, Eragon complained.
I know, but you need more allies, not enemies. It would be best to play their game and beat them at it. Brom sighed. They are afraid of you.
But they have more power in the Varden, said Roran.
Yet your prowess earned the respect of everyone within Tronjheim. In an argument against them, more people will back you up.
When the door opened, Melikir marched in, dressed in pure black clothing broken only by the royal purple shirt under his vest. Behind him was Faolin in equally dark clothing and a green vest. They sat down near the council. While Faolin looked passive, sorrow echoed from Melikir's face.
Askanir moved subtly to relay what happened to the elven ambassador. There was no doubt that the council would withhold information of what transpired.
"Faolin," Jormundur greeted. He turned to Ajihad's only son. "Melikir, Son of Ajihad, I am truly sorry for your family's loss. We formally extend our condelences – we all grieve for our loss but you and your sister lost more than a great leader. We all know what it's like to lose a loved one because of the blasted Empire."
Melikir bowed his head. "Thank you," he mumbled. Despite the timid nature, he seemed to be hiding strength too.
"It may be a time for mourning, but we face a dilemma in these turbulent times. Only you may resolve it right now, young Melikir. The council alone cannot lead the Varden, as you know. We need someone to take your father's place after his funeral. You are his heir and the position is rightfully yours. Everyone will be expecting it of you."
Melikir's eyes widened. "B-but… I am too young. I never expected that I would take his place until late in my life. I will embrace the office as is my duty though," he said. His timidness vanished, replaced by sheer determination.
Triumphant, the Council of Elders beamed and relaxed visibly. "It is for the good of the Varden – and yourself," Jormundur said. The rest of the council added their expressions of support, with Sabrae casting annoyed group at Brom and the Riders for not joining.
Falberd turned to Faolin. "Will the elves find it agreeable?"
Faolin gave him a cold look that was unusual. He raised an eyebrow, a familiar movement that Roran always observed in Arya when she was being irritated and yet did not wish to show it. "I can't speak for my queen. Melikir is a friend and I know a lot about him, so I don't find your choice so objectionable."
Can't do anything, can he? Askanir grunted. They backed us into a corner.
"Is there anything else that you wish to discuss?" Melikir asked. "My sister and I have more important matters to deal with before the funeral."
"We wish to do the arrangements and not trouble you with the funeral, but you and your sister seem determined," Jormundur said approvingly. "So we have no more matters to discuss for now."
Melikir nodded. "Thank you, once again. Would it be fine if you leave me now? I need more time to consider this development." He tapped the marble table impatiently.
Umerth looked like he was about to object. He was clearly displeased about the sudden dismissal. Falberd waved a hand to silence him, though. "Of course, if it will give you peace. We are always ready to provide help if you need our service." With a nod, the council swept past Faolin and to the door. Jormundur gave the elf an apologetic nod before following them.
"Shur'tugal, please, stay," Melikir said. "You too, Brom.
The council gave him alarmed looks, masking Jormundur's approval. Falberd lingered for a moment before leaving. Faolin grinned at the group he was about to leave behind though. Worry lingered on his face, but he chuckled before leaving.
"Some of us have not formally met," the son of Ajihad began. "I am Melikir, eldest child of Ajihad. I am truly pleased to be of your acquaintance."
"Consider us friends," Roran blurted out. Remembering that someone may be eavesdropping, he murmured, "atra nosu waise valdo fra eld hornya."
"Smart move," Brom said. "Now nobody will eavesdrop upon us."
Melikir relaxed. "Aye, that's a gift."
The dragons stirred and stood before the young leader. Their eyes met with Melikir's black ones for a moment. Then, they spoke as one. We grieve for you and your loss, little leader. The Varden needs a sure guide. Use your grief as your strength as you don the mantle of your father. It is what we do with the grief we have for the destruction of our race – and our Order. They swiveled to face Nasuada. And as it is yours too, little one. Be strong, we all stand with you – dragon and Rider.
Nasuada teared up and planted gentle kisses on the dragons' noses. "I love all of you."
Now I'm jealous, Solaris joked.
"You know that I love you most of all," her Rider said with a teary laugh.
"Ajihad is a great man," Brom grunted. "His name will always be remembered."
"There is something that we must tell you, Melikir," Nasuada said quietly. Her glance towards the other Riders meant only on thing – that they must let her talk of what transpired during the last moments of Ajihad's life. "Father gave his last command to us before he died. His last words were for us to prevent chaos from befalling the Varden. There might be a few implications around these words and were supposed to be a secret but in your place, you need to know. I have no idea about what Father meant and wanted when he said those. We will do our best to defend the Varden but we Riders will never dream of usurping the leadership of the Varden."
Melikir smiled sadly. "Seems like I'm not that leadership, eh?" He showed steel and composure, and it was enough for the dragons to admire. "I know why the council summoned you here before they called for me – and it's not just to offer the position to Brom, whom they knew would refuse. We served father, all three of us, Naz." Nasuada cringed at the childish nickname. "We planned for this – Father expected this to happen if he passes before his time. We expected this to happen and now I'm in the position of command."
Roran's eyes widened, realizing wha this implied. "You don't intend to let them rule over you, do you?"
"No." Melikir laughed. "Please continue to keep my father's final command a secret. It may cause people to assume that he wanted one of you to succeed him. It will cause further strife. He uttered those words to protect the Varden. I would have asked the same from all of you."
I like this two-legs. He has the dragon in him too. Askanir approved of him, then. But I still wouldn't have chosen him over you.
Of course. I'm the best, replied Roran.
"What are your plans?" asked Brom.
"I will continue what my father started but – but I might need your help." Melikir looked away. "I will work hard to fulfill his vision even if it kills me. Every plan and goal he had are now mine. We will take down the Empire, dethrone Galbatorix, crush the Forsworn and restore proper government."
"And what of us?" Eragon asked. "What will we do for the Varden?"
"To be honest? You can do whatever you want. I think the council is mad, thinking that you could be controlled. Riders, really! You are heroes – for everyone who hears of your feats during the battle. If you were to go against the council or me, we will yield. People would no doubt prefer you over us. If you accept my leadership then I will continue Ajihad's plans, and I will send you to the elves for training."
Why is he being honest with us? Roran asked.
I have no idea, but does that mean that we could have chosen not to go along with the council's dratted plans? Arya rubbed her forehead.
My brother trusts all of us,Nasuada explained.
Either way, it's too late for that, said Askanir. We've already agreed with the elders and we can't risk angering those.
Brom entered the conversation. We can trust this lad, and he trusts us, that much I know. And I have an idea…
What surprised Katrina was that the dragons also agreed. They often bickered and argued with each other before a decision was made, and now was one of the few times where they acted as one. Nasuada took the lead by drawing her sword, and before Melikir panicked, she knelt before him. Once the young man visibly relaxed, the others did the same and knelt too, forming a semi-circle around the future leader of the Varden.
"Some of us have only been here for a short while," Arya said. "We came to respect your father, especially as he managed to raise great children while managing the Varden. You fought when others fled, and treated us with trust when others chose to hold information from us. I am an elf, but we Riders are our own race. Therefore, let me say that we offer you our blades and fealty as Shur'tugal."
The decision was a big one – something that none of them would have done before. Even Katrina would have resisted bullying just to avoid that. The recent battle changed everyone's perspective, and they realized a few things. They knew what they were fighting for.
Melikir's dark eyes widened. He glanced at the six Riders – and one former Rider – kneeling before him. He lifted Arya's sword and laid it on her head. "I accept your fealty with honor, Rider, as you accept the responsibilities accompanying the station. Rise as my vassal and take your sword."
Arya smiled and did as was bidden. Melikir repeated the act with the others, until they were all up on their feet once more. Brom crossed his arms. "That was the only way for us to work our way around the position that the council has placed us. The council wanted us to swear fealty to the Varden upon your appointment."
"Ah, playing their own game." Melikir sighed. "As my newest and only vassals, my order for now would be for you to repeat this in public when the council excepts your vow."
"It won't be a problem," Katrina blurted out. "It will show them that we are not under their power."
"Thank you." Melikir sat down again on a vacant seat. "You must go for now – even you, Nasuada. Do not dishonor me, and I will do my best not to dishonor any of you too. Our bond is equally binding, and we must honor it."
"As you wish," the Riders said.
They left Melikir after exchanging condolences. Katrina walked by Luneria, lost in her thoughts. Do you think that we did the right thing?
Better to serve an honest fool than a lying scholar, the silver dragon replied. Melikir is doing the right thing but it will earn a lot of enemies. His enemies become ours, and I fear for our future. All of us. Though everyone will be worried and on edge until things return to normal.
Katrina grunted. Define normal, please.
Why is Glaedr featured in there? Well, you're going to find out soon so I'm not spoiling the fun for you! And I was surprised to know that you guys found Bloodlines so quickly! I need your speediness in the coming days...
I know that Ajihad's dead was so upsetting in the previous chappie and the book itself, but I'm assuring you that Himeria had nothing to do with it and knows nothing about the death. And yes, I will be spending 4 chapters featuring different dragon parents as minor introduction to... *BLEEEEEP*
Did any of you miss Garrow yet? He'll be making an appearance next chapter, along with someone else who regretfully appeared for only a few seconds in Bloodkin. And if any of you are disappointed by Melikir being the new leader, just remember that Brom will be his adviser and I seriously want him to develop from a timid boy with a core of steel to something else.
Expect something different next chapter, and I hope that you could leave a review too! :D Love you guys!