Queen Nasuada was glad to hear about Lady Drea joining them, which meant they had the support of all the nobles from the former ruling party, cementing their presence in Uru'baen as Lady Aerin had said. She called for a meeting in the throne room and once all the allies remaining came in, she announced:
"I wish to thank all for your support. I now grant the Argetlam the ability to go to the dragon base in Du Weldenvarden as previously invited by Arya. Eragon Bromson has asked to say a few words in this regard."
"Thank you, Queen Nasuada." Eragon bowed to her after he stepped forward and then turned to the crowd. "Anyone who wishes to see if they can become a dragon rider like myself are welcome to join me to see if one of the dragon eggs reserved for future Argetlam will hatch."
"I will go." Aliana said without hesitation.
Aerin stepped forward with K'aeligh at her side. "As will we."
"While the elven council convenes to discuss our next ruler, I will accompany your group." Arya volunteered.
Oromis slid an arm around Aliana. "Glaedr and I will come too, for we wish to return home among other things."
"Should one of us stay here with Queen Nasuada?"
"Not a bad idea, Murtagh. Are you proposing to do so?" Eragon asked almost slyly.
Murtagh looked like he was trying not to blush. "I wouldn't mind."
"Then it's settled. Anyone else wish to come?" Eragon smiled as several others in the throne room raised their hands. "Excellent. Go pack only necessities you can carry, it is a month long journey to Du Weldenvarden with this large a group. Sapphira and I will carry emergency supplies just in case."
Aliana let Oromis lead her away. "Do you think the others would mind if we flew ahead?"
"I doubt it. We have lingered here long enough to make sure Nasuada is settled in here as the ruler of our reformed Alagaësia and Glaedr and I both would like to make you feel at home with us."
"I would like that too." She smiled as they stopped at her room and she gathered up only things she wished to bring like her family's herbal books and her father's sword, leaving most of the clothing she had acquired as a member of Galbatorix's court, save for the items Aerin and Murtagh had given her as gifts.
I am very glad Oromis met you. Glaedr purred as he watched from the hall, looking content.
She smiled and petted his nose as they walked to Oromis's room together. "So am I. I am also very honored you care about and approve of me, Glaedr."
How could I not? Your past has not defined you, nor did being under Galbatorix's rule stop you from risking much to help.
"You are getting soft in your old age." Oromis teased as he packed. "Next thing you know, you will be choosing a mate."
I suppose it's only fair you get to point that out. Glaedr rolled his eyes with a huff of amusement. You two really aren't going to let me forget I should, especially once there are more dragons around.
Aliana giggled softly. "You are correct, of course. I fear I am just as bad as Oromis at pestering others. Just ask Aerin."
I don't have to, I noticed how you interacted with her and vice versa. No doubt it was something she said that made you take a chance with Oromis here. Glaedr flashed an impish grin.
Aliana leaned up and kissed the elf in discussion. "The best kind of chance."
"Thank you, my dear." He held her close and kissed her back. "Shall we say our goodbyes to everyone?"
"Yes, let's." She led him down the halls to Aerin's room.
Aerin looked up from her packing when Aliana tapped on the doorframe. "Come in."
Glaedr waited outside because he was too large to fit, his tail twitching as of he were a cat. Where is K'aeligh?
"He stepped away to send a message to the Shade Council. They are quite curious about dragon riders and will be more than happy to know he is going to accompany me."
"Indeed. Once Shades are added through the ancient ceremony, anything is possible." Oromis smiled. "I take it you and K'aeligh finally settled things?"
"He asked me to marry him."
Aliana hugged her friend. "And you said yes."
"You know me well." Aerin chuckled. "Though any other answer never crossed my mind."
That is wonderful news. Glaedr purred.
"Congratulations."
"Thank you, Oromis-elda. Aliana dear, I would love for you to be my maid of honor."
"I wouldn't miss it for the world."
"I had a feeling you would agree." Aerin smiled and hugged her. "We spoke with Arya and she assured us we could hold the wedding there in Du Weldenvarden when we arrive."
A perfect place for such an occasion. You will be surrounded by lush forests and no doubt Arya will make sure that there will be plenty of fine food.
Oromis nodded. "Such celebrations are looked forward to, so it is no surprise Arya would acquiesce."
"We are very grateful for her willingness." K'aeligh said as he entered. "You two heading out early?"
"Yes." Aliana nodded. "We decided to go on ahead of everyone. Oromis and Glaedr are quite eager to show me around."
"Sounds more like one of them just wants to have some privacy with you." Aerin teased with a sly grin.
Glaedr snickered as Oromis and Aliana blushed at the same time. Oh give them some space, they haven't even said "I love you" to each other yet. I am very tempted to try locking them in a room.
K'aeligh's lips twitched in amusement. "And here I was under the impression you dragons were patient."
Yes, hence why I said "very tempted". Oromis would never forgive me if I barred him in his own home any more than I would condone him blocking me in a cave with a female.
"And don't you ever forget it."
Aerin chuckled and hugged Aliana, who was still a deep shade of crimson. "Remember what I said in Laehi'?"
"Yes."
"I expect you to adhere to it as before." She leaned closer and whispered so no one else could hear: "Sometimes a leap of faith is required."
Aliana managed to nod in understanding. "I will miss you."
"And I you, but we will not be too far behind. I wish you safe travels."
"As do I."
"Thank you Aerin and K'aeligh. Shall we, Aliana?"
"Yes, let's go."