Luminescent (Inheritance Cycle and Beyond)

Chapter Fifteen: Iridescent

Unlike the walls of the city, the inside was dazzling with different hues of stone shining underneath the sun. We proceeded through the city until we neared the hall, Eragon dismounted Snowfire before coming to help me out of the saddle.

As much as I hated it, I needed help with a lot of things since my arm and hand barely worked anymore. Not to mention that I am going to have to get used to fighting with my left hand. I straightened out my clothes and made sure Hrothgar's gift was still on my head before following Eragon into the hall.

"Welcome to Tarnag, home of Dûrgrimst Ragni Hefthyn. We have heard much praise of you, Eragon Shadeslayer. I am Ûndin, son of Derûnd and clan chief." Another dwarf stepped forward.

"And I, Gannel, son of Orm Blood-ax and clan chief of Dûrgrimst Quan."

"It is an honor to be your guests," Eragon said as he inclined his head. The two dwarves then turned to Arya and me with a greeting before turning to Orik. Orik opened his and to reveal an iron ring, the chief's eyes widened. Ûndin gingerly picked the ring up

"Who gave this to you?"

"It was Az Sweldn rak Anhûin. And not to me, but Eragon." Alarm spread throughout the room. "We must consult on this issue. Shadeslayer, a feast is prepared in your honor. If you would allow my servants to guide you to your quarters, you can refresh yourself, and then we might begin."

At the first hint of light in the sky overhead Alethea waked me up with a quiet squeak, we were finally leaving for the lake. I secured everything I had to Tornoc's saddlebags as some dwarves wrapped cloth around his hooves so we would be quiet.

Eragon helped me up into the saddle before getting on Snowfire. The dwarves formed a box around us as we silently made our way to the gate. We made it out of the city without a problem and headed straight for the lake were rafts were being prepared. Tornoc was not going to like this.

Eragon helped me off of Tornoc, and our two horses were blindfolded and hobbled before being tied securely to a raft. Behind us, Saphira got into the water and started to paddle around with only her head visible. Eragon helped me onto one of the rafts, and we pushed odd from the lakeside and started down the river.

We finally reached land, and I could tell that the dwarves were relieved, and so were the horses. I stroked Tornoc's face sending calm and soothing feeling to him. It took us three day's to reach the forest and another three to reach the Edda River.

Flowers bloomed around us in stunning beauty, the full moon above our heads made them even more beautiful. Arya, who was at the front of our group, held up a hand for us to halt.

"Stop here," Arya said in a low voice. "Come forth, my brethren! You have nothing to fear. 'Tis I, Arya of Ellesméra. My companions are friends and allies; they mean us no harm." There was a response in Elvish that was so fast I was unable to comprehend what was said. "I do."

Elves dropped from the trees and began to dance around Arya in excitement. When Saphira walked up to us all of their weapons went up in alarm, Arya quickly talked in elvish which made the elves drop their weapons. Eragon removed his glove and shoes his insignia.

"Eka fricai un Shur'tugal." I am a Rider and friend. "Atra esterní ono thelduin." The elves face's lit up, and we were soon being directed through the small village. I ended up in a hut with several female elves who were helping me change into a fresh set of clothes. I quickly pulled on a new pair of gloves before any of them could see my mark.

I was directed towards a campfire where my group was sitting. Eragon's eyes landed on me, and his face was full of concern.

"Are you okay, Mal?" I gave him a strained smile. In honesty, I was exhausted.