Luminescent (Inheritance Cycle and Beyond)

Chapter Eleven: Luminescent

"Hrothgar warned me that Tronjheim sits on such a dense network of tunnels that if too many are weakened, sections of the city will sink into the ground under their own weight. We can't risk that." Adjihad added.

"So there won't be any fighting inside Tronjheim? You said the Urgals would be channeled outside the city, into Farthen Dûr." Jörmundur asked in confusion.

"We can't defend Tronjheim's entire perimeter—it's too big for our forces—so we're going to seal all the passageways and gates leading into it. That will force the Urgals out onto the flats surrounding Tronjheim, where there's plenty of maneuvering room for our armies." I spoke up. "Since the Urgals have access to the tunnels, we cannot risk an extended battle. As long as they are here, we will be in constant danger of them quarrying up through Tronjheim's floor. If that happens, we'll be trapped, attacked from both the outside and inside. We have to prevent the Urgals from taking Tronjheim. If they secure it, it's doubtful we will have the strength to provoke them."

"And what of our families your highness?" Jörmundur asked briskley. "I won't see my wife and son murdered by Urgals."

"All the women and children are being evacuated into the surrounding valleys. If we are defeated, they have guides who will take them to Surda. That's all I can do, under these circumstances Jörmundur."

Jörmundur sighed with physical relief before turning to Ajihad, "Sir, is Nasuada going as well?"

"She is not pleased, but yes." All eyes were on Ajihad as he squared his shoulders and announced, "The Urgals will arrive in a matter of hours. We know their numbers are great, but we must hold Farthen Dûr. Failure will mean the dwarves' downfall, death to the Varden—and eventual defeat for Surda and the elves. This is one battle we cannot lose. Now go and complete your tasks! Jörmundur, ready the men to fight."

Everyone in the room scurried out and headed for their intended tasks while I stayed behind to address Ajihad.

"Your highness, it would be best if you evacuated yourself now while you still have time." A sour expression crossed my face before it hardened.

"That is something I cannot do Ajihad. If I am to lead these people, I will be joining them, not running away. You want me to be your queen? Let me." Ajihad sighed and shook his head, mumbling about me being like my mother.

"If that is what you wish, then all I can say is please be careful your highness." A small smirk started to cross my face.

"Don't forget what I am Ajihad. We can take care of ourselves." Ajihad sighed again while a small smile crossed his face. "And don't call me your highness, use lady if you have to."

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I stood watching the crumbled ruins of the last tunnel that had to be caved as Eragon walked up to my side, dusting his hands-free from rock sediment.

"What do you think?" I surveyed his work with a grim expression.

"I hope this holds," I muttered before looking at the mass of woman and children streamed out of Tronjheim. Everyone carried loads of provisions, clothes, and belongings. A small group of warriors, predominantly boys, and older men, accompanied them.

Most of the activity, however, was at the base of Tronjheim. The Varden and dwarves were assembling their army. Each section bore the Varden's standard: a white dragon holding a rose above a sword pointing downward on a purple field.

"Ajihad wants you to join the army," Orik said, walking up to us in his armor. "There are no more tunnels to cave in. Food is waiting for the three of you." We headed into a tent and quickly ate before being led to the armory, Orik disappeared before coming back with several pieces of armor and a crew of other workers.

"My queen," Orik said, gesturing to another room. "Your armor has been prepared." Eragon looked at me with a frown. I rolled my eyes and headed to the room with my armor. I slipped out of my dress and into the sturdy green dress before pulling on pants made of the same material.

"Since you are a half-elf, Hrothgar thought that light but strong armor would be appropriate." I looked at myself in the mirror after the metal armor had been placed over my dress.

"This is perfect Orik, send my thanks to the king for his thoughtful consideration," I responded as I strapped a quiver to my back as well as a sword. I then tied a dagger to my leg as an extra precaution. I followed Orik back into the main room where Eragon and Saphira were waiting and stared at Saphira's armor. "Saphira will be a force to be reckoned with when we get that armor on you."

"I could say the same to you, little one," Saphira responded as Orik and Eragon started to put pieces on Saphira. "I can sense your guilt little one, you and Alethea are separated for your safety; it is not your fault."

I looked up at the blue dragon and stared into her eyes.

"When did you get so wise, Saphira? Never mind, that happens quickly when you are around Eragon." Saphira did the dragon version of a chuckle, startling several dwarves around us. Eragon shot me look. "We are having female bonding time before battle Eragon, excuse us if we find something funny."

Eragon grumbled before looking me over.

"You look like you belong in that armor Mal." I smiled and adjusted one of my metal vambraces before crossing my arms and frowning.

"Has there been any word on what they would do with Murtagh during battle?" I asked as Orik and Eragon put the last piece of armor on Saphira and stepped back.

"No," Eragon said as Saphira stretched out her neck and wings.

"This will slow me down, but it'll help stop the arrows. How do I look?" Saphira posed for Eragon.

"Very intimidating," Eragon replied, a puff of smoke exited Saphira's nostrils, she was pleased by Eragon's answer.

"I brought you armor as well, though it took much searching to find your size. We rarely forge arms for men or elves. I don't know who this was made for, but it has never been used and should serve you well." Orik helped Eragon into his arms and took a step back to admire his work.

"Thank you for these gifts. Hrothgar's presents are greatly appreciated." Eragon said, stretching in the armor.

"Don't give thanks now," Orik said with a chuckle. "Wait until the armor saves your life."