Aliana found Oromis and Glaedr getting ready to depart when she met up with them. "Here's a map to Lord Dayton's estate just passed Bullridge. He has a mansion here too, though he only ever stays there when in the city."

"Thank you, Aliana. What do you know about Lord Dayton?"

"I know he prefers people to be blunt with him and is stubborn. If you can gain his support, the other lords and ladies will follow suit without much resistance. Lord Dayton has control of and investments in a lot of our trade, so they will wish to not lose his support. I doubt he would actually cut them off however, he's more fair a man than Galbatorix."

"Sounds like his family. It's good to know that in a world of change there are some constants." He paused. "I suppose it would be asking too much for you to come along and introduce me?"

She hmmmed. "I wouldn't say it's too much, just not a non-partisan idea. Lord Dayton met me a few times at balls and even if I said I supported you all the nobles would see it as catering to the current winner of the war. Besides, you and Glaedr hardly need introduction."

"Yes, that is true. We will return once we have Lord Dayton's answer." He embraced her and Glaedr nuzzled them both.

Aliana realized she would miss them as she watched Oromis mount his dragon. "May the winds bear you up and carry you swiftly."

And may you be safe at hearth and home. Glaedr returned, taking to the sky with one beat of his wings. He waited till they were out of view amidst the clouds before he spoke again. Do you think we can get Lord Dayton's support?

"Aliana mentioned he's stubborn, so we may have to be persistent in gaining that. Then again his family were the ones to give land to the dragon riders here, therefore he might be like his ancestors. We will have to wait and see."

It didn't take long to reach the location circled on the map and Glaedr landed in the clearing by the impressive mansion. Acres of land surrounded them with green lush grass, trees and several koi ponds. Horses ran to the far end of their pasture at the sight of the massive dragon. Oromis dismounted and soothed them as a servant came outside and bowed.

"Lord Dayton has been expecting you, dragon rider. Your dragon will have to remain out here." He cast a nervous glance at Glaedr.

"You need not worry, Glaedr will not harm your lord's livestock. He prefers wild beasts that are much larger."

"Of course, I meant no disrespect." He stuttered with a deeper bow. "Your name, dragon rider?"

"Oromis-elda."

The servant looked surprised. "This way, Oromis-elda."

Oromis inclined his head and let the servant lead him inside, down the hall and to a sitting room with bay windows that showed a great deal of the estate.

Lord Dayton rose to his feet from the red plush chair he had been in, silver lines streaking his thick brown hair and was almost as tall as Oromis. He sent his servant away with a wave of his hand. "At last, a real Argetlam graces my house."

"My name is Oromis-elda. I don't believe we have met, Lord Dayton."

"No Oromis-elda, but my father knew of you and your mighty golden dragon. He spoke of your battles before and during the rise of the Foresworn."

"That was a long time ago."

Lord Dayton inclined his head and gestured to one of his chairs. "Take a seat, Oromis-elda. I assume you are not here to speak of the past."

Oromis sat down and waited for his host to do the same before he spoke. "Indeed. I have come as a non-partisan representative of the kingdoms now that Galbatorix is dead in hopes of gaining your support."

"And what do you expect if you have my allegiance? Money? Land? Crops?"

"You may wish to give us some of those things by your own choice or through trade and we will be grateful, but we don't expect anything for free. It has already been decided that the new Shur'tugal will train at an old base in Du Weldenvarden, so what was given to you in Uru'baen will remain yours."

"Interesting." Dayton rubbed his chin. "And what could I expect if I agree?"

"The council of leaders from every race would be more than happy to give you first pick of goods for purchase or trade."

"A generous offer, but I fail to see how that is different from what I have right now."

Oromis regarded the man in silence for a while and remembered what Aliana had told him, which fit well with Aerin's statement that money would not sway Dayton. "You may have that to an extent Lord Dayton, but none of your connections are Argetlam and I highly doubt a man of your taste liked to claim association with the former king."

Dayton appeared surprised for a moment and then smiled. "You sure you're not reading my mind to know that?"

"I can assure you I have not. The Swordmaster of Uru'baen gave me the impression you were a blunt man and preferred others to give no quarter."

"Aliana would know better than most, she doesn't mince words with anyone. How do you know her?"

"Let's just say I spent some time in Uru'baen as an unwilling guest."

"There were rumors Galbatorix had a rider in custody, so it would make sense he'd have Aliana on the job. Did she say anything else?"

"Only that coming along would look like she was merely catering to the current victors."

Dayton laughed. "Still sharp as the weapons she wields, I see. How long do I have to think over what you have said?"

"I was not given a specific time frame, though I imagine the council of leaders would like an answer as soon as possible."

"Of course. Will you do me the honor of staying for dinner? I dislike making decisions on an empty stomach."

Oromis inclined his head. "I accept your hospitality, Lord Dayton."