As the sun set on the final day of the Games, the field was transformed into a grand feast. Long tables stretched across the arena, filled with foods from every corner of Alagaësia: roasted meats, fresh fruits, vegetables, and delicacies from human, dwarf, urgal, and elven traditions. The scent of herbs and spices filled the air as laughter and conversation rose above the clinking of goblets and cutlery.

Eragon sat with Arya and Roran, surrounded by a mix of nobles and various champions from the Games. Murtagh and Nasuada were further down the table, speaking in hushed tones. The urgals and dwarves, as usual, ate heartily, their booming voices making Eragon smile.

"This feels... different," Roran commented, tearing into a piece of bread. "After everything, to be sitting here like this—feasting with all the races, no tension, no fear—it's something I never thought I'd see."

Arya nodded, sipping her drink. "It is a rare thing to see this peace, but we must work to preserve it. Unity like this is fragile."

As the evening wore on, music filled the air, and dancers took to the open spaces between tables, their movements graceful and spirited. The feast became a celebration not just of the Games but of the progress Alagaësia had made since the fall of Galbatorix.

Afterward, the leaders gathered in a more intimate setting, away from the festivities, for the final discussion Eragon had been preparing for.

Seated around a stone table in a quiet hall deep within Tronjheim, Eragon began. "Before we part ways, I'd like to discuss the rider council once more."

All eyes turned to him, the weight of his words settling over the group.

"The Riders have grown in number. But with this growth comes the issue of control," Eragon continued. "We need a council, one that can guide us and help to ensure that no Rider ever abuses their power again."

Nasuada leaned forward, eyes sharp. "You speak wisely, Eragon. But how do you propose we structure such a council?"

Eragon glanced at Arya and Murtagh before replying, "We must ensure that each race has a voice—elves, dwarves, urgals, and humans—so that the Riders serve everyone, not just themselves. I propose 2 representatives from each race. The Riders of old often took too long to make decisions, and a smaller number of representatives means a more efficient deliberation."

Murtagh, who had been listening quietly, spoke up, his voice low but steady. "We need more than just representatives. The council must have real authority, able to challenge any Rider, including you, Eragon. If we are to prevent another Galbatorix, we cannot afford to let any one person hold too much power."

Eragon nodded, appreciating Murtagh's bluntness. "Agreed. The council must have the power to check the Riders, and I would be bound by their decisions as well."

Orik grunted in approval. "I like the sound of that. Balance. No one above the law, even the Riders."

Orin scoffed at that. "How can we trust that the rider council won't one day become corrupt altogether?" he said

Eragon sighed. "I am aware there is still risk, and I'm working to come up with a solution."

"What kind of solution?" Orin pressed.

"A magical one," Eragon said. "I don't know if its feasible yet though. I need time to research and consult those with greater knowledge than myself. For the immediate future, the council will give us better control. I can't be solely responsible for so many. We need structure, and the eldunari will help guide us as well. They will form a smaller council of their own with three representatives who, when necessary, will break any ties the council may have with regards to a vote. This will ensure a swift decision is made."

As the conversation continued, Garzhvog crossed his arms and spoke up. "The urgals will recognize this council's authority, as you ask. We fight for unity now, not for ourselves."

Nasuada looked toward Arya. "And you? How will the elves fit into this new structure once Dathedr takes the throne?"

Arya met her gaze. "The elves will support the council, as we always have. Dathedr will ensure our voice is heard, and as the first elven Rider, I will ensure our people continue to aid the Riders however we can."

The council structure slowly began to take shape, with each leader contributing their perspective on how best to maintain balance and protect Alagaësia from future threats. But as the discussion continued, Haroldun knocked at the door. He approached Eragon nervously under the gaze of so many important people in Alagaesia.

"Ebrithil," Haroldun began, his voice filled with both eagerness and hesitation. "I've decided. I want to stay in Alagaësia—for now. I'll travel with you to Ellesmera and learn more of what it means to be a Rider before I venture to Arngor."

Eragon placed a hand on Haroldun's shoulder, smiling warmly. "That is a wise decision, Haroldun. There is much you can learn from Arya and myself during this journey, and I look forward to having you with us."

Arya nodded in agreement. "Traveling with us will give you time to understand the balance between the races and the role the Riders must play. You will be an asset in Arngor when your time comes."

As the meeting drew to a close, farewells were exchanged. Orik extended a hand to Eragon. "Safe travels, Shadeslayer. And when next we meet, we'll have a new council to help guide and guard us all."

Garzhvog raised his head in respect, while Nasuada clasped Eragon's forearm in the old Varden gesture.

"Farewell, Eragon," Nasuada said with a small smile.

Murtagh gave him a brief hug and farewell, his features and thoughts clearly saying he was still pondering the many changes they were making to the Order.

As the leaders began to disperse, Eragon lingered, his mind heavy with the decisions that lay ahead. The Games had fostered unity, but the true work of solidifying peace in Alagaësia was just beginning. They were walking a tight rope between what was best for Alagaesia and what everyone felt was right. He knew before long Murtagh would find out about his plans for the wordless magic, and he was almost certain his brother would not approve.

Turning to Haroldun, he said, "Tomorrow, we leave for Ellesmera. Meet us in the dragon hold at sunrise. The elven forest awaits."