After hearing about the rings from the king, the heroes were left shaken. Later that night, all five of them sat together in a luxurious room within the palace. The chamber was spacious, furnished with a massive king sized bed, expensive decor, and finely crafted items that reflected the kingdom's wealth.
Max and Snow stood near the window, gazing outside. Rey lay lazily on the bed, Ben sat on a chair, and Eragon stood quietly near a cupboard, keeping to himself.
Max: "So… those rings must be powerful. If we get them, we'll become strong."
Snow: "Yeah, but the problem is finding them."
Max: "True. The king didn't mention anything other than that. Hopefully, we'll get proper details tomorrow."
Ben: "Leaving that aside, this world doesn't seem that bad. Honestly, I kind of like it here. The king even said we'd get houses and a monthly wage. Sounds like a pretty sweet deal, right?"
Max: "Maybe. But what if it's all a lie? What if, after we defeat the demons, they throw us away? There's no guarantee they'll keep their word."
Ben: "Relax, Max. You're overthinking."
Eragon finally spoke, hesitantly.
Eragon: "If I may… I think we should first learn more about the rings and then decide what to do."
Rey scoffed immediately.
Rey: "And who asked you? Since when do we take orders from you?"
Snow: "Yeah! Do you really think you're some hero who'll save this world and become an idol?"
Hahahaha!
The room filled with laughter as they mocked Eragon. Max stepped forward, grabbed Eragon by the hair, and glared at him.
Max: "Listen carefully, idiot. Don't act like you're some overpowered hero who gets to lecture us. I saw you trying to act cool in front of the king. Know your place. Or we'll remind you just like the old days. So what'll it be? Want the same treatment, or will you stay quiet like a good little boy?"
Eragon lowered his gaze.
Eragon: "I understand, Max. I won't get in your way. I'm sorry. I think I'll go rest now… I'm exhausted. Please excuse me."
Max: "Yeah. Go And don't try to act like a hero again."
Eragon: "Alright… good night."
Ben: "Good night, cutie."
Laughter echoed once more as Eragon quietly left the room.
As Eragon walked through the palace corridors, he couldn't help but feel amazed. The hallways were vast, lined with golden statues and tall windows that reflected moonlight. Everything felt unreal.
Suddenly, he noticed movement outside one of the windows. The general, accompanied by several guards on horseback, was leaving the palace through the main gate.
Where are they going at this hour? Eragon wondered.
High above, perched on a tower, an owl watched him silently. For a brief moment, it almost seemed as if the owl was smiling. As Eragon turned away and continued walking, the owl spread its wings and vanished into the night sky.
Eragon finally reached his room and lay down on the bed, staring at the ceiling.
Eragon (thoughts):
"Another world… so this is real. Rivergate, elves, dwarves just like the stories. I never imagined something like this could exist.
Mother… I hope you're watching me. Your son is truly in another world now, just like the bedtime stories you used to tell me. I miss you. I wish I could talk to you just once more."
Tears rolled down his cheeks as exhaustion overtook him, and he drifted into sleep.
The next morning, everyone gathered in a large meeting room. Present were the king, the general, the mage, several guards, and a delegation from Forestfall. The five heroes sat around a massive circular table.
From Forestfall, three elves represented their kingdom, a governor and two guards clad in green attire and silver armor. The governor wore a green cape bearing a golden emblem ,a tree encircled by gold, symbolizing Forestfall.
Rivergate's emblem, displayed proudly in the hall, was a silver shield crossed by a spear and sword. Their soldiers wore red uniforms with silver armor.
Once everyone had settled, the mage stood and spoke.
Mage: "I welcome the Forestfall delegation to Rivergate. And with pride, I introduce our summoned heroes. Please, heroes introduce yourselves."
One by one, they stood.
Max: "I'm Max. It's a pleasure to meet you all."
Snow: "My name is Snow. I'm honored to be here."
Ben: "I'm Ben. It's an honor."
Rey: "Rey. I look forward to working with you."
Finally, Eragon attempted to stand but Rey kicked his chair, causing him to fall. Laughter erupted. Even some in the room smiled awkwardly.
Eragon stood up calmly, composed himself, and spoke with dignity.
Eragon: "Please forgive my clumsiness. My name is Eragon. It is an honor to be in your presence. I look forward to working with you and offering my service."
The Forestfall delegates appeared impressed. Max, however, clenched his fists in irritation.
The Forestfall governor then stood.
Governor:
"Heroes from another world, welcome. What you are facing is unfair, and it pains us deeply to involve you. Yet, we have no choice.
We will hold back Moonreach for five years. During that time, you must grow physically and mentally. Starting tomorrow, you will undergo brutal training and conquer three dungeons. Within them lie two of the rings you must obtain."
His voice hardened.
Governor: "From tomorrow onward, you will endure hell. Prepare yourselves."
The room fell silent, yet a burning excitement ignited within the heroes.
The mage nodded.
Mage: "Then let us proceed to the next matter your training before entering the dungeons."
The governor's eyes gleamed.
Governor: "Correct. Before facing a dungeon, you must master the basics sword, spear, axe, archery… and survival."
At that moment, Eragon felt a strange pressure in his chest warm, heavy, and unfamiliar.
Somewhere far above, unseen by all, an owl watched once more.
And smiled.