Time Period: Approximately 16.5 years after Destiny and 17.5 years after Niaomi

Location: Ellesméra, Alagaësia

Characters from Destiny: Liress, Mahogany, Rosaminda, Renata, Arya, Ruby, Eragon, Niaomi

Characters from DragonInk: Belle & Raugmar (created by moi), Verity & Shrewd (created by LydiaSparrow), Lana & Solista (created by bookworm12600), Roslyn & Gereth (created by RiderFirnen), Adurnaë (created by Lauren19997), Reona (created by LydiaGiVi)

A/N: So, this was going to be a part of my next entry for the DragonInk competition, but it would involve a timeskip and thus not have the important details/relationship developments that this short has. Therefore, I'm posting it as a seperate entry, and though while it is not techinically a part of the competition, it is still a part of that storyline (hence the degree in the title instead of the asterisk). Still hope you guys enjoy it! And up above is a picture of the cover of Breaol - can you guys guess who's the dragon?

Shout-out to KittenCatten, the 25th voter of Niaomi. Check out her amazing stories by clicking the external link below; her novel Lovely is summed up by its title! And become my 150th fan, the 700th voter of Destiny (congratz to Autumnzoey for becoming the 650th), the 35th voter of Niaomi (congratz to TiffaniJohnson1 for becoming the 30th), or be the first to answer the trivia question at the end of the previous chronicle to win the chance to choose a prize!

Story:

Belinda Liressdóttir struggled to keep her eyes open as Verity buried his face into her side, his shoulders shaking slightly. Lifting one trembling hand, she slid it into his thick black hair and left it there, to tired to do anything more. With her mind, she searched for Raugmar, and instantly found him nearby. He was sleeping, so she left him to his rest and focused her attention on the other room's occupant. "Lana?"

"Good to see you're awake now," said Lanalynn Morningstar, her violet eyes kind. She set down the plant in her hands on the desk behind her, and Belle realized it was a kuldrfëon, one of the blossoms she and Verity had seen yesterday. "You've been asleep for half a fortnight."

"Half a fortnight?" she gasped in disbelief, growing even dizzier at the thought. So that meant they'd seen the golden lilies seven days ago, even though the memory was still very much vivid in her head. "What happened to me?"

"Do you remember the last thing that happened to you?" Lana asked, her gentle voice not quite masking the worry in her tone.

"Yes. I was struck by one of the...Areq's spells and passed out." It was easier if she thought of him as a name rather than a Shade.

"It was more than just another spell." The elf sighed, walking back to grab the chair, pulling it out from under the desk and turning it around before sitting. "It was designed so that you wouldn't wake unless the Shade ended the spell or returned."

Belle felt the boy at her side tense at the blonde's words, and so she began petting him slowly. "So did he do either?"

Lana smiled triumphantly. "Actually, no. I found a way to heal you - or rather, Verity found the way. He brought the kuldrfëon, and I realized the flowers had been touched by a spirit, as well as you (in a sense). So that meant that the seeds could negate the effects of the Shade's enchantments."

The girl took a few minutes to absorb it all, her breathing growing easier though her head still ached. "I-I think I understand now. Thanks."

"I was merely doing my duty," the elf said, her hand instinctively moving towards the glyph on her left wrist that spelled the word for healer. "Anyways, let me go down to prepare a meal for you. You must be starving."

Belle thanked her again, and Lana left, closing the door behind her. After the blonde was gone, she looked down at the head of the boy that was still nestled against her lower torso, unmoved. He had not said a single word since his first exclamation upon her awakening, and she was growing worried. "Verity? Is everything all right?"

He chuckled weakly, the sound muffled, and raised his right hand to grip her own, removing it from his hair and lifting his head to press a kiss upon its palm. Her gedwëy ignasia tingled, glowing brighter and further illuminating his features. She asked in a breathy voice, "Have you been crying?"

Verity said nothing, just moving her hand so that she was now cupping his cheek and closing his eyes. Belle bit her lip, seeing the slight puffiness around his dark lashes and knowing he'd hidden the redness of his irises.

"Are you okay?"

Chuckling again, his eyelids flickered open and pinned her with his sharp gray gaze. "I should be asking you that," he whispered in a hoarse voice, gripping her hand tighter. "Are you okay, Belle?"

"I'm fine," she said softly, smiling gently. "Now you answer the question."

Blinking once, something changed in the way Verity was watching at her. The look in his eyes became mellower and sadder by just a touch, and her brow furrowed. He touched her forehead with his other hand and smoothed it out, running his fingers down her face. They skimmed across the bridge of her nose, her right cheekbone, downwards further to her thin lips before moving to her neck and up into her hair.

Belle realized that it was loose now, out of the braid she'd been wearing it in before she'd been attacked. He ran his hand through her wavy strands gently, never looking away from her eyes, and she felt her heart begin to tremble in anticipation. His palm trailed down her arm, leaving a burning sensation in its wake, and gripped her other hand before moving both so that they were clasped against his chest. Below his dark blue jerkin, she could feel the pounding of his own heart, gentle and rhythmic yet slightly faster than usual.

"Forgive me," Verity finally said, his voice quiet yet no longer a whisper. Pressing her palms tighter into his chest, he scooted forwards and continued, "Forgive me for not realizing how much I loved you until I nearly lost you."

Eyes wide, Belle barely managed to keep her mouth from dropping open at his words. He loved her? Verity really loved her? She couldn't help but lower her gaze as she blushed, and the gleam of her bracelet caught her eye. Examining the fragments of Raugmar's eggshell caused her to recall the last conversation she'd had with the boy, before Galbatorix had invaded her mind. Galbatorix - the Rider who'd betrayed their order, given rise to two of history's greatest wars, and the man who'd fathered her. A secret unknown to her until now, yet one that everyone else had seemed to know - including her beau.

"Belle?" Verity asked, growing concerned. Her brow had begun scrunching together once more, and he was beginning to wonder if he'd made a mistake in confessing his feelings. "What's wrong?"

"Why didn't you tell me sooner?"

"About my feelings? I didn't know how strong they were until then, and I'm sorry that - "

"Not about that," the girl cut him off, her pale bronze skin growing redder. He felt relieved until hearing her next words. "About my father."

It grew quiet, and Verity felt Belle's hands grow limp in his. Reluctantly, he let them go, watching as they curled against the blanket on her lap. She still hadn't looked at him again since his declaration, which was extremely uncommon. He knew that she made a point to keep eye contact when having a conversation - it was considered rude by Aroughsians to do otherwise.

With his heart growing heavier by the moment, he turned away to pull up Lana's chair to the bedside. Belle lifted herself up so that she was propped against the headboard. When he made a move to help her, she froze, and his fists clenched.

"I didn't tell you sooner because I had only just found out from - " Verity hesitated, wondering if he should say the name. He knew how she felt about the other Rider.

"Was it Reona?"

He masked his shock, an easy task to accomplish yet one he'd been striving to do less of since arriving to Ellesméra - or, more specifically, since befriending Belle. "Yes. How did you know?"

"Call it a lucky guess," she replied in a wry voice filled with underlying anger. "So you're telling me you had no idea who my father was until that day?"

Cursing his sense of honesty, he admitted, "I'd had my...suspicions beforehand, but remained unsure and unconvinced until Reona stepped forwards with further proof."

"Thus confirming your suspicions?" Belle asked, and this time the anger was clear and leveled at him.

She still would not raise her gaze, so Verity took a chance and grabbed her chin, forcing their eyes to meet. "I didn't care about having my suspicions confirmed. I only cared - care - about you."

Her big brown eyes were like windows into her soul, and in them he could read the pain she felt. "Why didn't you tell me?" she questioned brokenly, blinking rapidly to keep the growing moisture from spilling forth.

Verity kept his grip on her jaw, trying to show her his sincerity with his eyes alone. "Because it didn't matter. It doesn't change who you are, and I don't care about who your father is."

"But I cared. I cared, and you knew that, Verity! You knew and yet you still didn't confide in me."

"What good does knowing do?" he demanded, his own temper rising. "What good does knowing that your father was the monster who betrayed the Order do for you? Does it help you at all to know that you're the daughter of the mad king? That - "

"Stop it!" Belle yelled, pushing his arm away and rolling so that she no longer faced him. His hand fell to his side, and Verity sat there in the silence until he couldn't take it anymore.

He looked down at the girl, bending so that he could breath in the rainy fresh scent of her hair. Out of habit, he ran his hand through it once, ignoring how her body grew still. Laying his heart on the line, he told her, "I love you, Belinda. Please, please forgive me. I'm sorry for keeping this from you, truly. I never meant to hurt you. Please, say something. Anything."

She just lay there, her back turned to him. Rising to his feet, Verity boxed his emotions away. He took all the despair and love he held, and placed it somewhere were he couldn't be touched by it. Resisting the urge to turn around and beg for her forgiveness further, he walked to the door and left.

Belle was lost to him once more, and this time, he only had himself to blame.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Once the door had shut behind him, it was then - and only then - that Belle allowed her sobs to be heard. She lay on the mattress, pulling the blanket up to her chin and letting her tears come loudly. They'd been threatening to pour forth earlier, so she'd had to turn away from Verity. If he'd seen her crying, than he would've stayed, and she couldn't handle him right now. Her hand gripping her chest, trying to keep the keening inside, struggling futilely to dim the pain. Suddenly, a conscious entered hers, and the heartache lessened. Raugmar.

I am here, small one, he said, his voice as soft as a dragon's could be. You are awake and well, yet something troubles you. What is it?

Letting him examine her memories, Belle rolled onto her back and looked up at the ceiling. Why does it hurt so much?

Raugmar's shifting wings could be heard from outside the window, and she realized he lay at the base of the tree. I cannot assist you in these matters, for the ways of humans are different than the ways of dragons. However, I believe the answer you are searching for lies within you.

Have you been here since I was brought back? she asked, changing the subject as she did not wishing to dwell on Verity any further.

Yes.

Have you been eating properly?

Of course.

Yet you haven't been hunting?

His agreement was reluctant this time. That is true.

Then how, Belle began in an exasperated tone, Could you be eating properly?

He didn't answer her for a time, but she knew he'd heard the question. Grumbling, Raugmar refused to answer her with words, using images instead.

Even though she tried not to, a laugh couldn't help but escape her. Really? Solista has been feeding you? Like a hatchling?

I'm no hatchling! In case you have forgotten, I can now breath fire.

And it's very impressive, Belle said with a grin, being sincere. The smile faded as she remembered how Verity had saved her, the relief in his silvery stare as he'd gazed down at her. The memories continued: the first time she'd heard him laugh, the way he'd say her name, the partially burnt off eyebrow that would quirk upwards when he was amused, the softness of his lips. Clutching her pillow to her chest, she gritted her teeth and stifled the urge to begin crying once more. I miss him already.

Well, he hasn't quite left the vicinity.

She sprang upwards and then just as quickly fell back down, the dizziness taking hold once more. What do you mean? Belle asked as the world stopped spinning.

Are you alright?

I'm fine, I'm fine. Now, what did you mean about Verity?

He paused a few trees west, Raugmar explained, snorting once and causing the smell of smoke to drift into the room. You could probably see him from the window.

Rising slowly this time, she turned to the windowsill right beside her bed and lifted herself up just enough for her to peek outside. Lana dwelled in a tree next to the training fields, enabling her with a wide view of the sky to the east. Her eyes watered at the smoky air her dragon was letting loose, and she peered in the opposite direction through the gray haze to find Verity to the left, close enough that she could make out the look of masked distress on his face. Suddenly, he was looking her way, and she fell back onto her bed with a small squeak.

Heart pounding, she dared not look outside the window again and instead asked Raugmar, Is he still looking?

Yes, the dragon stated, highly amused by her predicament.

D'you think he noticed me staring?

Proba-

Raugmar!

He laughed his coughing growl. I was going to say probably not through all the smoke.

Oh, she said with a sigh, realizing why'd he been puffing away. The door on the other side of the room opened, and Belle inhaled quickly, hoping yet dreading for it to be the boy. Likewise, she was both disappointed and relieved upon seeing that it was simply Lana with her meal.

"I made you some soup with a teaspoon of faelnirv, to help you regain your strength," said the elf as she placed the tray on her lap. "There's also some hazelnut buttered bread and a cup of blackberry tea."

"It smells delicious," she replied by way of thanks, taking the spoon and sipping at the soup. It was exactly the right temperature, not too cold to have settled yet not too hot to be inedible. She greedily began slurping it up, manners forgotten as she hurriedly filled the empty cavern of her stomach. It was only Lana's soft giggle that reminded her of where she lay. Her hue grew mottled as she swallowed before hastily apologizing.

The blonde just waved her words away. "I'm just glad you like it. You should probably rest one more day before going back to your training. Luckily, tomorrow's the day off for apprentices. I want you to spend the night here so that I can monitor you and make sure the effects of the Shade's spell are fully gone."

"Alright," the girl said, finishing her soup in a more ladylike. "Do you know what the time is?"

Lana looked at her desk where a candle clock sat. They were a new invention from Belle's cousin-in-law Nicholas Vanyaweoh, a wooden case with a glass door that had markings in the inside to denote the time that had elapsed as the candle within burned. It allowed people to not have to spend extra money on marked candles and was far more accurate, as it kept out other factors that sped or slowed the burning of the wax. With the energy of a gem, the candle clock also had a symbol for the rise and fall of the sun that shifted to match the seasons. Still, candle clocks had yet to make their debut outside of Ellesméra. "It's a hour until sunset. I have to go out now, but I'll be back before the sun goes down. Is there anything you'd like me to get for you?"

"My belt, if it wouldn't be too much trouble."

"Sure thing." Moving to the foot of the bed, the elf opened up a trunk and searched for a moment until removing Belle's belt along with a neatly folded set of clothes that she recognized as her from that night. Looking down, she realized she was garbed in a sea-green lámarae nightgown. "Here's your things. Get some rest - you need it."

"I will. And thanks, Lana, for everything."

The older Rider nodded, smiling at her before leaving the room, and Belle reached for the strap of leather. Fingering the one empty scabbard, she wondered what happened to the blade she'd thrown at Areq. Had he taken it with him once he'd vanished? And what did his master want with her?

What are you doing? asked Raugmar as she reached for a different belt loop.

Unhooking the bronze naiad mirror that she'd never got around to returning, Belle answered, I'm going to ask my mother a few questions.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Liress frowned at her mirror, her light hazelnut eyes squinted as she studied the glass. Golden brown eyebrows were drawn together in a fierce frown, the hair darker than the strands that fell from her head like rays of sunlight. Her bright red lips were pursed, and the bridge of her straight nose was scrunched slightly in dismay. Though she was looking into a reflective surface, the enchantress was not busy examining her own beauty. Instead, she was looking for another reflection.

"Gods damn it all!" she cursed, turning away from the mirror that hung on her wall and flopping down onto her bed with a tired sigh. Liress had been trying each day to contact her daughter, and each day received nothing. Her eldest, Maggie, had not been very forthcoming about the details, no doubt taking her sister's side instead of their mother's. Children could be so ungrateful at times.

Just several days beforehand, she'd felt her energy drain slightly as the protective measures of the bracelet she'd gifted Belle with were enacted. It was a last line of defense for saving her life, and so the enchantress had grown panicked at the thought of her youngest girl being in that kind of danger. But the following day, Maggie had contacted her to say that she had to stop trying to scry Belle.

"She's not in the...condition to maintain the spell that keeps you from scrying her, Mother," the Rider had told her with irises that were like a reflection of her own. "I'll get her to contact you as soon as she's a- er, able to."

Maggie had refused to explain anymore than that, and so Liress had stayed in the dark. Each night before sunset she'd stare at her mirror, as if she could cause her little bell's face to appear by her will alone. Looking up to the ceiling, she prayed to Hermes, the god of messengers, for him to help her and Belle finally make contact.

"Mother?" Liress shot up with a gasp, staring at her mirror in disbelief. Through the glass, her youngest child stared back at her with guarded eyes.

"Thank you, Hermes," the blonde breathed, rising to her feet and taking a seat at her vanity table over which the mirror hung. "Oh, Belle, I've missed you."

The girl graced her with a tiny smile. "I've missed you, too."

Liress studied her further, noticing the paleness of her skin that turned her usually bronze complexion a dark olive tone. There were dark bruises underneath her large eyes, and that thick wavy hair had lost its sheen. She stroked the mirror as if touching her face and asked, "What happened?"

"My father happened," Belle answered, her cool tone not quite hiding the tremble in her voice. "Y'know, the disposed king of the empire, the one you used to serve. What was his name again? Oh, Galbatorix, that's right. It was him."

The enchantress didn't flinch at the venom in her daughter's words, knowing she deserved that and so much more. "I'm sorry, my little bell. So, so sorry."

"Why didn't you tell me?"

"Why would I want you to grow up with the burden of knowing your father was a monster?" she volleyed back. "I wanted to keep that burden off your shoulders for as long as possible so you could grow up with a somewhat unfettered life. You already have to deal with having me, the second Black Hand, for a mother, but at least with the knowledge that my true name changed and I turned away from his evil."

"'But when bad turns good...and bad adds bad...'" her daughter began whispering, as if quoting someone else's words.

"What was that?"

Setting the revelation away for the moment, Belle waved the question aside and got back to the topic at hand. "I know why you did it, Mother. I understand now...but you must have known you couldn't keep it from me forever. And I'd rather have had you tell me than have found out the way I did."

"Tell me everything."

The Rider gazed through the naiad mirror, seeing the love and concern that shone clearly in Liress's honest brown eyes, and knew that she'd forgiven her mother. How could she be mad when the older woman had only been trying to protect her and keep her safe? With a sharp pang, Belle realized that Verity had only been trying to do the same.

So after telling the enchantress what had transpired with the return of the Ra'zac and their new master the ghost king, she ended the scrying, having promised Liress that she'd contact her at least once a week and enable the blonde to scry her once more. Her throat had tightened when her mother had said, "I love you," remembering her response to Verity when he'd told her the same.

This time, Belle had also confessed her true feelings. And as she placed the mirror on the nightstand and followed Raugmar into slumber, she swore that on the morrow she'd tell Verity the truth, as well.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Raugmar awoke with the sun, yawning widely and belching up a stream of smoke. He rose from the ground he'd been resting on, stretching, and realized how the sheen of his scales was duller than before he'd begun resting at the base of the-one-with-the-violet-sun-palm's tree. An amused voice told him, You may not be a gem dragon, but your scales should still gleam.

He lifted his neck to see what looked like another sun rising into sight from the east, this one more purple in hue. I know that, Solista, the black dragon replied in a haughty tone, raising his head further. I am not a hatchling.

Solista walked forwards, the shade of the trees settling over her and hiding the orange and pink shimmers in her scales. Now, she looked completely mauve, from the various shades in her hide to the row of spines that ran down her back. Even her eyes were violet, though not as extraordinary as Raugmar's.

She dropped the four-legs held in her mouth at his feet. Time to break your fast.

I am to hunt for myself.

Ah, so your Rider is awake? Solista inferred. Good. Perhaps now I can spend some time with Lana since I no longer have to hunt for two.

When he growled in response, she merely licked his snout as if he truly was a hatchling. Rearing back, he said in a heavily affronted voice, You should take that four-legs out of Ellesméra. The elves were not very pleased with the meal arrangements.

Gripping the carcass with her talons, the older dragon unfurled her wings. The pointed-ears understood the circumstances. Come; I shall lead you to herd where I nabbed this one from.

I can hunt on my own! Raugmar protested, but Solista had already turned away, flapping hard to gain some altitude before flying out over the training fields.

Grumbling, he followed suit, working the muscles in his shoulders as they drifted higher into the sky. In the early morning rays, the she-dragon glimmered, and the black dragon reluctantly admitted to himself that her scales were far more admirable than his. But that was solely based on the fact that she was a gem. However, his talents were in the air, and so he proceeded to show them off while Solista chuckled.

They reached the herd quickly, and she ate as Raugmar hunted down the largest male he could find, still wanting to impress his companion. A good catch, she noted, and he nearly hummed at the praise. Now, hurry and finish so that you can bathe.

Harrumphing, he did as she'd ordered while muttering, I know how to keep clean.

You could have nearly fooled me.

They made their way to the river, with Raugmar grumbling all the way, and he dove in as Solista cleaned her claws with her tongue. Intrigued with the concept of breathing fire underwater, he proceeded to do so, and was delighted by the sensation of the warm water rolling over his scales. When he arose, he believed that his dark hide looked cleaner from this bath than any other he'd taken.

Come rest with me a while. You had a big meal.

You're not my dam, he sniped, though he laid down beside her and did not complain when she placed her head on the hollow of his neck. Even if Raugmar would not admit it aloud, he liked the sheltered feeling Solista gave him. It was one he had not felt since he was a hatchling held in the partner-of-his-mind-and-heart's arms. Thinking of her and her predicament with the-silver-starer, he asked the other dragon, Do you know what it is like to be in love?

She shifted above him, her throat growing warmer as the flames inside kindled with her purr. You know that dragons rarely take on lifemates, as our lifespans are endless unless some wound of the flesh befalls us.

All the dragons on the council have a lifemate.

Yes, but they have one within each other, and the elders both had a different mate before they mated. Dragons are not naturally monogamous creatures; only those bound to two-legs - and even then particularly any species that are not elves - ever take on a lifemate. But I now get the feeling that you do not seek the answer for yourself.

Sighing, Raugmar admitted, I worry about Belle. She has fallen in love, yet problems are arising.

There are bound to be problems in any relationship, Solista told him, nipping his ear. Even in ours.

Like the fact that you continue to treat me as if I just emerged from the egg?

She just let out a rumbling roll of laughter at the annoyance in his tone, standing up and staring down at him with amusement glittering in her eyes. Your partner shall be fine, Raugmar. After all, she has a strong wind dragon to stand by her side.

Of course, he agreed, rising quickly to his feet and stretching out his wings. I should be getting back to her side right this instant. Race you back to Ellesméra!

Springing into the sky, he heard Solista roar behind him, You'll be needing that head start!

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Getting dressed back into her own clothes, Belle tucked her shirt into the breeches she wore before sliding her belt through the loops. She made sure all her scabbards were arranged neatly, trying not to obsess over the empty one, and unlashed Sundavr from her side. The sword was drawn to reveal the dirty blade, which she quickly wiped clean with a spare cloth she always kept in her back pocket. Mistress Rhunön, the elf smith, and Swordmaster Vanir were both well-known for surprising apprentice Riders with random sword inspections and thoroughly scolding any who did not keep their blade in pristine condition, making them write long essays on proper weapon maintenance else risk either having their Rider sword revoked or delay its making.

Once she was sure Sundavr was good enough to pass, Belle placed it back in the scabbard and return it to its place on her belt. She was just pulling on her boots when the door opened to reveal not Lana, who'd she eaten with earlier, but a different set of visitors.

"Belle!" Adurnaë launched herself across the room, gripping her roommate tightly as she continued, "I am so glad you're okay! You didn't wake up for so long and we were all really worried and - "

"Breathe," Belle instructed the Rider, stroking her red hair soothingly. The young elf finally pulled away, her brown eyes sparkling with relief. She stepped back to allow the other guests to come forward, and Belle stood up to throw herself into the outstretched pair of arms. "Maggie."

Mahogany Liressdóttir held her little sister tightly to her chest, the sick worry that had gnawed at her ever since Areq had cast his spell finally relenting. "Thank all the gods that you're alright."

Belle buried her face into the other's shoulder and said in a low voice, "I talked to Mother and forgave her."

Pulling back, Maggie searched the girl's face, and saw no traces of anger or resentment. With a large sigh of relief, she hugged her again before kissing her forehead and letting her cousins step forwards.

The woman who'd given Murtagh's apprentice her boots grinned, her blue eyes shining brighter than the sky. "It's wonderful to see you up and about."

"Thanks, Rose," Belle replied, giving her cousin a tight hug. Pressing her face against the waves of golden hair, she could almost imagine it was her mother who held her in her arms. Indeed, Rosaminda Konaeldheill looked more like Liress than either of her daughters did.

Renata Svit-osthato, like her twin sister Rose, also had blonde hair. However, her irises were a gray color that achingly reminded her younger cousin of Verity's. But their gaze was nowhere near as piercing, and she hugged Ren just a warmly as she had everyone else. As typical, her words were both loving and chiding. "I'm glad you're safe, and try not to be so foolhardy next time. Remember that Shades can't be killed without a strike through the heart."

"So the rumors are true?" Adurnaë spoke up from the side, her face slack with shock. "You battled a Shade?"

Belle looked over towards her sister and replied, "It wasn't much of a battle. Besides, without Maggie confronting him head-on, my dagger never would have made it to Areq."

"Aunt Bells, Aunt Bells!" a voice higher than even her own called, and she looked down behind her cousins to see a little boy toddling towards her with a wide smile on his cherubic face.

Laughing in delight, she reached down to swing her nephew up and into her arms, pressing her chin atop the head of unruly black hair that he'd inherited from his father. "Brom! What are you doing here?"

He leaned back so that he could gaze upon her with his sky blue eye, keeping the black one shut tight in a wink. The iris's shade was lighter than Rose's, which made sense as he hadn't inherited its color from the same woman she had (which was his great-aunt, the first Belinda). From what they'd been told, Brom got his blue eye from his namesake, and the heterochromia came from his other less beloved grandfather. "Móði brought me cause she said you was woke and I could come and I could see you!"

Maggie grinned at her son's exuberant speech as his aunt merely laughed once more and kissed his nose. Brom laid his head on her sister's shoulder with a wide yawn, and she explained to them all, "He made me promise to bring him with me when I went to see you, and so I had to wake him up earlier than usual."

Adurnaë squeaked, jolting off the edge of the bed and asking frantically, "What time is it?!"

Checking the clock, her roommate told her, "Nearly three hours past sunrise."

"Oh no oh no oh no, I'm going to be late!"

The redhead darted past, pausing to kiss her friend on the cheek before taking off. Belle chuckled and said aloud, "Typical Adurnaë."

"I heard that!" the elf's voice drifted up through the window as she sprinted past it, and everyone laughed at her words besides Brom, who was already fast asleep.

Handing her nephew to Maggie, she searched for Raugmar and found him still settled at the base of the tree, not actually dozing but in a semi-conscious state of mind. Are you ready to go back and sleep in a real bed?

He rumbled his affirmative as Rose said, "The rest of the family is eager to see you. Why don't you stop by Eragon and Nia's place a hour till sundown? We'll bring some apprentices, and it can be a sort of party!"

"Sure thing," Belle agreed, grinning at her cousin's enthusiasm. They all began making their way out of the tree.

Suddenly remembering, Ren told the apprentice, "The queen wants to see you at midday for a debriefing about everything that happened."

"Sure thing," she repeated, her voice less pleased than before. They went their separate ways as they emerged from Lana's home: Belle mounted Raugmar while the others walked back to their own dwellings. So, did you hunt for yourself this morning?

Her dragon craned his neck to glare at her with one slitted eye, and she held back her laughter as he flapped to the edge of the training field. Why would I not? Dragons are independent creatures by nature, self-sufficient and self-reliant.

You seemed to rely on Solista quite a bit. Raugmar barrel rolled, making Belle shriek as she clutched the spine in front of her, not having bothered to strap herself in for the short flight. Though her legs were hooked through the saddle's loops, they threatened to fall out until the dragon righted himself once more. She demanded aloud over the wind, "What'd you do that for?"

For being as irritating as Solista, he replied arrogantly, changing his path so that he circled the fields below. Belle caught sight of several dragons below them, who roared up a greeting to Raugmar which he loudly returned.

Muttering uncomplimentary comments about her dragon, the Rider sulked as they made their way back to their tree. As soon as he landed on the dragon balcony, she hopped off and headed to the bathing room, ignoring the deep coughing growl that came from behind her. Deciding a relaxing soak was in order, she filled the wash bin and added the liquid soap that made bubbles, slipping in with a loud exhale.

Her hair hung over the rim, long enough to touch the floor as Belle laid down in the bin. She lazily ran the washcloth over her skin, knowing Lana must have been the one to clean her while she was asleep. I need to give her a gift to properly thank her. What should it be?

Raugmar had no suggestions, and told her that he planned to find Shrewd because he was growing bored. After she reassured him several times that she would be fine attending the meeting on her own, he left. She ducked down beneath the water line and washed her hair with one of the scented shampoos that Maggie had given to her for a past birthday. Would the blonde elf healer like something such as that? No, Lana was much too practically minded to truly enjoy such a gift. Hm...then maybe she'd like a book? But what book did she not already have?

Rising from the cooling bath water, Belle dried herself off and wrapped the towel around her torso, still trying to think of a suitable present. She pulled the plug to let the water drain and dried her hair with a quick spell before striding to her room. As she rummaged through the drawers for an outfit worthy of an audience with the queen, an idea struck her. After putting on a shift, the brunette made her way to her bookcase and pulled out the one she needed.

A knock suddenly sounded at her door. Belle quickly slipped into the high-waisted yellow dress she'd chosen, throwing the old clothes in the laundering slot and pulling her boots back on before saying, "It's not locked!"

She grabbed a brush from her nightstand and tidied her hair as the door swung open to reveal Roslyn. "Hello. May I come in?"

"Ah, sure."

The elf entered, carrying a potted kuldrfëon in her hands and offering it to the girl.

"You left this at Lana's place, and she wanted me to bring it to you."

"Thanks." She took the pot and set it down next to her hairbrush, but Roslyn made no move to leave. "Was there anything else?"

The senior apprentice sighed deeply, her gray eyes troubled, and said, "I came here to see how you were doing."

To say Belle was shocked would have been a gross understatement. "I'm well, thank you for your concern."

The elf waved her words aside, a frown creasing her brow. "Please, don't thank me. Not until I've apologized."

"Apologized?" the girl repeated, thoroughly flabbergasted.

"Yes. I'm sorry for saying those things about you and your father - " Belle opened her mouth to protest, but Roslyn was not finished, " - because it was wrong of me to tell you the way I did."

"I'm the one who should be apologizing," she said once the older Rider had finished, her conscious full of guilt. "I'm the one who should have come to you."

"What for?"

"For using your fears against you and insulting you the way I did."

"Oh, that." Roslyn waved her hands once more, but something in her eyes betrayed the hollowness of her next words. "You were just speaking out of anger, and besides, it was only the truth."

Belle frowned at her. "No, I wasn't. I was lying to try and hurt you."

"I don't need pity from someone like you," the elf relied hotly, angered by her heartfelt words.

"What'd you mean, 'someone like me'?" she demanded.

Ignoring her question, Roslyn said harshly, "I don't need others to look down at me, or need the pity of beautiful people. So don't bother."

She turned on her heel, about to stride off, when behind her the girl admitted, "Well, of course you don't."

"...what?"

The elf turned to see Belle shrug. "Of course you don't need the pity of beautiful people since you're beautiful yourself."

Reeling back in shock, Roslyn automatically replied, "I'm not beautiful."

The girl snorted. She was actually snorting at her! "Very funny. You elves aren't called the 'fair folk' for nothing."

Not sure if the audacity infuriated or saddened her, the senior apprentice retorted, "Not all elves are beautiful."

"I haven't  yet seen an ugly one in all my time here. Have you?"

She finally realized that Belle wasn't lying or subtly insulting her, just simply being honest. But why should that be surprising? The girl was irritatingly honest to a fault, except - it seemed - when she was upset, and few were themselves in that state. This was the first time anyone outside of her loved ones had called her beautiful without another motive at work.

When Roslyn began laughing, Belle gave up on trying to understand the conversation that had just transpired. The elf chortled until tears ran down her face, and she just looked on with not a sliver of understanding. Wiping her eyes, Roslyn placed a hand on her shoulder and squeezed it gently. "You're not so annoying after all."

"Annoying!" Belle protested loudly. "How am I annoying? Is that the reason you were laughing so much?"

"And then, she opens her mouth..." the other Rider sighed, frowning slightly though the corners of her mouth were still quirked upwards. "I expect to see you at the training field bright and earlier tomorrow morning; you have to make up for the week you spent sleeping in."

"Sleeping in?" the girl echoed, her voice higher than normal.

"Yes, that's what I said," Roslyn replied, feeling just a bit cross at how dim Belle was acting. "Have fun at your party."

"You're not coming?"

Already on her way out, she snorted and said without turning around, "We're still not friends yet."

Since Roslyn was already jogging down the stairs, she didn't see the girl smile slightly or hear her whisper, "Yet."

Stepping out into the warm spring air, the elf thought about Belle's words. Gereth was already there, keeping an eye on her as always. Let me see myself through your eyes.

In the next moment, Roslyn's vision went dark as it turned inwards. An memory of her appeared in her - or rather, her dragon's - mind. She felt pride and love well up at the sight of herself, all the emotions Gereth felt towards her. She'd always took it for granted when he'd told her she was beautiful, and he had tempted her to do this before. But now, with the younger Rider's honest confession and through Gereth's mind's eye, she was able to catch a brief glimpse of what they saw in her.

Once she withdrew, it was over. Roslyn knew if she were to examine herself in a mirror, she'd still despise what it showed her. However, now there was hope to look past what she saw in herself, to one day see the beauty others proclaimed she had.

Does this mean you no longer find Raugmar's Rider irritating? asked her dragon as she walked back home.

Not quite as much, she admitted. But now, it seems that to replace the stutter she lost, she's developed the most annoying habit of repeating what I've said as if I haven't already said it. What purpose does that serve save for extreme agitation?

Gereth sighed as he listened to Roslyn rant, and knew that she still had a long way to go.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Belle wished she'd worn a dress with longer sleeves as she walked into the same chamber where Murtagh's three apprentices had been given their mission: to put a stop to the destruction of Du Weldenvarden. Since she couldn't fiddle with her cuffs without the nervous gesture being noticeable, she bit her lip and curtsied to the queen, forgoing the elven greeting in favor of the human one.

"You wished to see me, Your Highness?"

Arya Dröttning gestured for the girl to rise. The table from the council meeting had been replaced with a large throne perched near the center of the room, almost directly beneath the chandelier. It grew from the floor itself, the leafy tendrils framing the scarlet-clad elf woman who sat there. She wasn't wearing her cape of swan feathers, which only made sense considering the season. Her gown went down past her feet and had the two-strapped fashion that was growing more and more popular recently. Belle felt as though she'd come very underdressed.

"How are you faring after your skirmish with the Shade?" the queen asked in the ancient language, her dark green eyes as sharp as ever.

Following her example, Belle responded in the same tongue. "I am faring quite well, all things considered."

"Good. I called you here before me because I have some concerns about your connection to your father. Your fellow apprentice, Verity, told me that he suspected you were possessed. Do you recall any of these events?"

"N...not truly," she answered, hesitating as the word "no" stuck in her dry throat.

The flutter of wings signaled her to Blagden's approach, and he glided down from wherever he'd come to perch on Arya's throne. The elf continued uninterrupted. "He also claimed that he was able to shake you free from Galbatorix's hold by putting on the bracelet you wear now."

Bristling slightly at how she'd subtly implied the boy had been lying, Belle swallowed and said, "That is correct."

"It must be an extraordinary bracelet."

"It is."

Their eyes met and held, and they stared at one another until Blagden cawed loudly. "If you wish to stay, you must stay quiet," Arya told him, her eyes never leaving the Rider's. "Do you believe that your father's ghost can take control of you once more?"

"I - well - I don't think so. As long as I'm wearing my bracelet."

The queen's eyes had narrowed almost imperceptibly as Belle stuttered. "Let me rephrase my question: are you a threat to Ellesméra's residents?"

So that's what this has been all about, she thought to herself as she lowered her gaze to the floor. The elven queen worried that her presence was endangering those around her. She stopped biting her lip and instead wrapped her right hand around the bracelet on the opposite wrist, running her fingers along the smooth yet jagged fragments of Raugmar's eggshell. Though he was not at her side, he was always with her; with him, she never had to fear losing herself.

Raising her head, Belle confidently proclaimed, "No. I am not a threat to your people nor to my order."

Knowing why the girl had separated "Ellesméra's residents" into two distinct groups, Arya forced herself to smile and say, "That is a relief. You may take your leave."

Instead of curtsying as she had when she'd entered, the Rider merely gave her a respectful nod before spinning on her heel and striding off. As soon as the doors shut, a cool voice spoke up from behind her. "Since when have you begun interrogating apprentices?"

"Since one such apprentice became a vessel for our greatest foe."

Ruby Huginelditaka's voice grew even colder. "We have already taken precautions to ensure Belle's safety. You would do well to remember that she did not betray my order. And it would also do you well to remember, Queen Arya, that while we live among your people for the sake of convenience, the Riders are under the rule of no race."

She said nothing in response as the swish of the elder's robes signaled that Ruby had left the room. From above her head, the white raven croaked, "Rulers are high, but Riders can fly!"

"I know, Blagden. I know."

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Adurnaë had caught word of the party being thrown in her roommate's honor, and had immediately increased the guest list by nearly tenfold. What was supposed to be an intimate family and friends gathering had turned into a small revelry. Belle sighed as she gazed at the dancing elves and Riders, leaning back underneath the shadow of a pine. They'd been forced to change the location to a small knoll next to the city's borders.

Standing off to the side, she scanned the crowd of celebrants for the tenth time this night, examining the outskirts for one gray-eyed dark-haired boy in particular. As before, there was no sign of him. It seemed as though he'd decided not to come, and Belle struggled not to let the disappoint overwhelm her.

Moping in a corner accomplishes little, Raugmar said. He was standing at the edge of the crowd with several other dragons, eyeing the tankards of mead curiously.

And getting drunk through our bond will not help, either, she snapped at him, and was then instantly apologetic. I'm sorry. I just - 

Go find him.

But I can't just leave my own party!

You practically have already, he pointed out, as right as always. And you won't be able to enjoy yourself until you've made up with him. Go.

Nerves suddenly assailed her. I-I don't know where he is.

The dragon snorted but did not comment on her weak excuse, informing her that Shrewd had told him that his Rider was at the Crags. Raugmar offered to fly her, but she knew he was enjoying himself here and assured him she could find another way. This time, she searched the swaying bodies for a different male, and found him almost immediately. With just the barest amount of hesitation, Belle made her way through the people, smiling graciously at those who paused in their festivities to express their happiness at the fact that she was healed.

She spotted the elf responsible for her recovery and gave her the present she'd completed before the arriving: sketches of all the pictures in her illuminated copy of Domia abr Wryda. Seeing the sparkle of joyous tears in Lana's violet eyes, Belle knew her gift was highly appreciated. After departing with a quick yet fierce hug, she continued onwards until she came to a stop before the Rider.

"Belle," Eragon Shadeslayer said by way of greeting, his brown eyes twinkling with merriment. "The lady of the hour has finally decided to grace me with her presence."

The leader of the entire Order gave her a deep bow, and the brunette felt her blush climb all the way up to the roots of her hair. "I, uh, I was wondering if you...could do me a favor."

"Anything," he replied kindly, clapping a hand to the shoulder of his sister's sister. "I shall help in whatever way that I can."

Knowing her face was turning redder by the moment, Belle squeaked out, "Could you ask if your pegasus could give me a ride to the Crags of Tel'naeír?"

Eragon looked at the flushed girl before him, equal parts confused and amused by her behavior. "Of course...Holcomb says he's been yearning to stretch his wings and shall gladly take you. May I ask why you're going?"

She had not believed that her face could grow any hotter, but it did. "Ah, that is - I mean, I'm going to...to tell my beau that I love him!"

Belle clapped her hands to her burning cheeks, embarrassed to have just blurted out the truth like that. Instead of laughing, the man squeezed her shoulder lightly and said, "Good for you. I have no doubt that he returns your feelings."

"Really?" she asked, shocked and intrigued as to why Eragon would believe that.

"Really. Any boy would have to be crazy not to return your affections."

"Really?"

Chuckling, he nodded and leaned forwards to kiss her forehead. Before she could say another word, Eragon turned her around and gave her a slight push forwards. "Just head straight forwards and Holcomb will meet you outside the edge of this gathering. Hurry on and go tell him."

The girl only took a few steps forward before spinning around to through her arms around him and whisper, "Thank you." Before he could respond, Belle had already taken off.

"What was that all about?" a woman said from behind him, and by the sound of her voice alone he knew who it was.

Her arms wrapped around his waist as she settled her chin on his shoulder, and he looked back to kiss her nose and answer with, "Just family stuff."

"Family, huh?" Niaomi Dragonseer said with a warm smile, the flecks of silver in her eyes twinkling. "Does dancing with your lovely wife qualify as family stuff?"

"It most certainly does." Eragon removed her hands, keeping them in his grip as he spun her around and dipped her in time with the music. Nia laughed in delight, and he waited for her chuckles to subside before pulling her up and pressing his lips to hers.

Meanwhile, Belle had made her way out of the throng, and looked around for a winged horse. The pegasi were creatures native to Alalëa, the ancestral home of the elves, and only those who had bonded to someone - such as Holcomb to Eragon - left the island. While looking for the pegasus, she found Reona instead.

A righteous surge of anger carried her forwards to stand in front of the elf, who glared at her icily in response. "What are you doing here?"

"I was invited," Reona replied with a toss of her pale blonde hair.

"Like you want to wish me well!"

"Not everything has to be about you, Belle."

The brunette gritted her teeth at the calmness in the other's voice. It made her feel as though she was being treated as just a pesky child. "Well, you've certainly been obsessed with me! After all, it was you who told Verity about how Galbatorix is my father."

"And what of it?"

"I'll make this clear now, since you don't seem to understand," Belle began, her voice high yet cold. "Back. Off. You won't be able to drive a wedge between me and Verity."

"Might I ask where he is now?" inquired the elf, her posture confident.

"With me," she answered, deciding to speak in the ancient language. "He told me that he loves me - me, not you. You lost, Reona. So stay away from Verity, or I swear by all the souls in Hades, you will regret it."

Before another word could be said, the flapping of wings came from above as a white pegasus landed before Belle, his brown eyes inquisitive. The girl mounted him without even looked at the blonde Rider, and they flew off; Reona was left there, her face having gone pale with rage as she clenched her shaking fists and whispered bitterly, "I do not forgive. I do not forget. And I do not lose."

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Verity stared up at the night sky. He didn't care that he was probably getting grass stains all over his clothing, a thought that would usually irritate him at the least. Now, he felt merely nothing. His eyes were filled with light of the stars, and his ears were filled with the sound of Belle's party. He cast aside the sorrow before it could claim him.

She was lost to him, and it was okay. She didn't love him, and it was okay. She most probably hated him now, and it was okay. He couldn't think that it was not, else he'd cease thinking at all. He would run back to her, begging and pleading and making such a fool of himself that she'd only hate him more.

Throwing his arm across his face to cover his eyes, Verity breathed deeply and struggled for that emotionless state he'd perfected. But now, it wasn't perfect; it was as if the dam holding back his feelings was leaking, and he was unable to fix it. Or was he just unwilling? If he went back to being the kind of person he'd been before, with a heart that was cool and reserved, would there be room for Shrewd? For Murtagh? For Belle?

He lifted his arm and gasped. She was standing before him, her dark hair loose and swirling in the light summer breeze, wearing a sunny dress on her tall frame and a pained expression on her lovely face. Verity blinked, and blinked again when the image didn't disappear. "Belle? What are you doing here?"

The girl pushed the bangs out of her eyes so that she could meet his. "I'm here to apologize."

"For what?"

She shook her head, looking hurt even further. "Verity, please don't make this harder than it already is."

"What are you talking about?" he asked, genuinely confused. "Are...are you really here, or is this just a figment of my imagination? If so, why don't I understand what you're referring to?"

"Verity," Belle said, her voice pitched even higher in distress. She bent to her knees in front of him and stretched out her hand to touch his cheek. He gasped, shocked by the feel of her lightly callused palm. It was real. She was real.

The boy lunged forward to pull her into his arms, burrowing his face into her neck, breathing in the scent of her hair and mumbling, "You came back to me. You came back."

"Of course I did," she said, pulling back to look into his eyes. Verity kept his hands around her waist, unwilling to let her go in fear that she'd change her mind. Her legs were folded as she sat between his, and he drew her closer so that he could kiss her face, which grew warm under his mouth. "V-Verity, I need to...to tell you something."

"And I need to kiss you," he muttered, but she turned her head away, adamant to talk. Unhindered, he just skimmed his lips down her jaw to her neck, whose pulse pounded beneath the bronze skin.

"Verity," Belle breathed, trying to remember what she needed to say as sensations rolled through her. "I'm sorry."

"I still don't know what for."

Her hands went up to his lean chest, pushing him away slightly so that she could steady her breathing. His irises were silver in the moonlight, gleaming with fierce intensity and making her insides quake. She swallowed but didn't look away as she said, "I'm sorry for pushing you away when you were only trying to protect me."

Verity's eyes seemed to lose some of their flare. "It's okay."

"No, it isn't," Belle argued, clutching his shoulders and leaning forwards so that their heads were pressed together. "It wasn't okay for me to be so cruel to you, especially after you'd...you'd told me that you loved me."

"Belinda," he whispered, and the way he called her by her full name had a warmer kind of goosebumps running down her spine. "I love you, so that means I forgive you. And I'm sorry for making you cry."

"How did you know I was crying?"

"I always know, my lady." Verity took her hands from his shoulders so that he could press a quick kiss against the back of each one. "For I am your valiant protector. Forgive me for failing you."

She couldn't keep from giggling at his phrasing despite the seriousness of the moment. "I love you, so that means I forgive you, too."

His body went still, and Belle grew worried. "What's wrong? What did I say?"

"You said you loved me," the boy replied, and she suddenly realized why he'd been frozen. It was the first time she'd said the words, and they had come so naturally she hadn't even noticed.

"Well...I do." She let out a short shriek as she found herself suddenly lying on her back, Verity hovering over her.

"Say it again," he rasped, his voice hoarse with emotion.

Blushing brightly, she bit her lip and whispered, "I love you."

He kissed her, swift and hard, and when he pulled away she twisted her hands into his hair and tried to pull his mouth back to hers. Keeping his distance, he demanded, "Again."

The brunette smiled cheekily and said the phrase in dwarvish. Verity cupped her face in his hands and ordered her to repeat herself, and Belle did - this time in the Urgal tongue. He groaned in frustration at her evasiveness, and this time told her, "Tell me in a language I understand."

"You're no fun," she teased, and gasped when he leaned down to nip her earlobe. This was the most playful side to him she'd ever seen - and she liked it.

"Tell me," Verity whispered straight into her ear.

"And you're surprisingly demanding for a valiant protector," Belle continued, laughing uncontrollably as he tickled her sides. "Alright, alright!"

"Well?" he asked impatiently, raising his eyebrow as her eyes flitted away from his, amused at her shyness. "Gods, do you know how beautiful you are?"

The girl grew even further flustered. "I can't say it when you say embarrassing things like that!"

"It's just the truth," he retorted, keeping one arm round her torso as he slipped his other hand under her head to tangle his fingers in her wavy strands. "It's my job as your beau to shower you with compliments. Besides, I love you."

Her eyes shimmered, the golden-brown flecks that he had enchanted him at first sight now shining brighter than the starry canvas above them. "Eka dunei ono, Verity."

His heart stopped, shuddered, and picked up even faster than before. Verity rolled them over so that Belle lay sprawled atop him, burying both hands into her hair and staring into her eyes before she closed them. He smiled and murmured, "As you wish, my lady," before obliging her with a warm and lingering kiss.