The Rise: Eldunari

Chapter 14- Forewarnings of Danger

Elva stared wide-eyed at Arya and Eragon. The forest around them was silent, except for the iridescent birds chirping amongst the canopy. Arya and Eragon sheathed their blades, still weary of the girl before them.
"Where are you headed, O dragonrider? Are you not to stay to protect the realm?"
Her voice had a hint of mocking in it, covered up by genuine curiosity.
"You know where we are going, why we are going and what we have to do, Elva, so why ask?"
"That is true, but I wanted to ask nonetheless."
"We are headed to Ellesmera to meet the Riders, from there we will dispatch forces to secure various strongholds, defend those who are helpless and send the Masters back to the dark depths from where they came." This time Arya spoke. Her voice was measured, even though she was eager to continue their journey.
"Nicely put, Queen Arya."
"If this is a cordial visit, Elva, we are glad, but we must get going. Every moment wasted, lives may be lost."
"Wait. I did not come merely to rekindle a friendship for old times sakes. Seven years ago, you reprimanded me for refusing to accompany you on your siege on Dras-Leona. This caused the regrettable death of the elf Wyrden. I think about the conversation we had every time I feel someone's death. You had cursed me, but my immaturity was my biggest curse. I have come to right the wrong I committed seven years ago, and I come bearing a message, but a message only for you."
Elva walked up to Eragon and beckoned him to kneel so that she may speak directly into his ear.
In the quietest of voices, Elva spoke. "In your travels, you will encounter an enemy you cannot see, you cannot feel and cannot fight. The one you love most will feel a torment, unlike any ever felt before. Her soul will be wrought and you will be helpless against this foe unless..." Elva swayed on her feet. It was evident the words were taking a lot of energy out of her.
"Unless...?" Eragon whispered.
"Unless you perform the Joining of the Minds, and share her burden." The words made Eragon's eyes widen. He was about to speak when Elva's fingers hushed him.
"Not a word of this to the Queen. This was meant for you and you alone. You will do well to heed the orders, Shadeslayer. Now, be on your way." Elva planted a kiss on Eragon's cheek and ran off back to the city. Eragon's eyes bore a hole in the soil which he was staring at. Arya looked at him curiously before asking "Eragon? What did she say?"
Unsure of what to respond, Eragon smiled reassuringly to her.
"Just a few words of advice for our journey, nothing major." Arya did not look convinced.
"Eragon..."
"Arya, we best get going. The journey to Bullridge is long and the terrain is uneven." Arya nodded and they began their run. For better or for worse, no race could have ever hoped to match the speed and grace of elves. Eragon was an exception. Both Riders kept an even pace, covering league after league.

Midday soon melted into a dark gloomy evening. Eragon and Arya soon reached a town, Alamain, about halfway from Ilirea and Bullridge. It was quaint, but lively with action. Word of the attack at Ilirea had obviously not reached this far. Taverns were lit with joyous banter as full houses of people drank, ate and indulged. Arya and Eragon stealthily sneaked past the two guards posted at the wooden gates. Covering their faces with their hoods, they entered an inn called 'The Lonely Hills' and weaved through the crowds to make arrangements with the inn keeper. All around them, men and women drank and ate their fill. Gripping Eragon's hand, Arya held on to avoid being separated or found.
"Hello there, good sir, what can I do for you?" The innkeeper was a sturdy man, with an over-sized gut. He had a deep voice and a dark beard.
"Two rooms please, interconnected if possible." The innkeeper eyed him and Arya suspiciously. Unwilling to cause any conflict, he gave Eragon two keys and in return, three gold pieces.
"Sir, this is too much! I cannot in own conscious take this much from two kind visitors."
"You have our thanks, innkeeper. You will keep these coins for it is what you are due. We are grateful for your hospitality."
"Is there anything I can do to make your stay more comfortable? Our bar has some of the finest whiskies in all of Alagaesia. I could have a bottle sent to your room, or to your lady's room if you wish."
"That would be appreciated very much." The innkeeper bade them farewell as Eragon and Arya walked up the wooden steps. The sound of the bar faded slightly until it was a faint glow in the distance.
"May I come to your room once I have unpacked?" Arya asked Eragon.
"Depends on what your intentions are." Eragon replied.
Smiling, Arya said "It has been a long day, and I seek good company and some alcohol."