[sunshine42494]

Chapter One- Dreams of the Fallen

Night had fallen upon the city of Feinster, but that did not stop Saphira, her vision was not hindered by the darkness. She had not wanted to leave Eragon, but her need for sustenance became too great to ignore.

Loneliness filled her as she recalled what had brought her rider into this state. Oromis, old-elf rider-who-was-her-and-Eragon’s-master, was gone, and Glaedr- great-gold-dragon-of-old, was in mourning, stuck inside of his Eldunari.

Alone, that was the last thing he said. Indeed they were alone. The last free Rider and Dragon once more. There was no one left to help them, No one who could understand.

She was the last female dragon in existence, and Eragon was a half human- elf hybrid. But as these deep feelings threatened to overwhelm her, she remembered what Eragon had said.

“We are not alone. I have you, and you have me. And there is Arya and Nasuada and Orik, and many others besides who will help us along our way.” She felt her self swell with pride for her Rider. He has indeed become wise, since I hatched all those months ago.

Her thoughts drifted to a person who was on Eragon's mind quite alot: Arya. She was a peculiar creature, hardened and torn by war, and Saphira felt that she was the one they could trust most of all. She closed her eyes enjoying the cool wind as it rushed over her scales.

It still confused her the way Eragon’s heart quickened when she came near, but he was not so foolish to try to woo her again. That last time had caused him so much pain, she doubted that he would ever try again.

But at times it seemed that the slient warrior that was Arya, would soften around Eragon, if only briefly, but it was there. This little tendril of something, that Saphira couldn’t seem to understand, nor coax out any further.

She and Eragon did embrace for quite a time, maybe now I can get some answers. Abruptly her momentary peace was in teruppted by a wave of hurried panic and fear touched her mind, Eragon. He was alone and if he was in this state of panic that means that the elven guards who were assigned to him were not there to help.

Worry shot through her, her eyes shot opened and she immediately turned around, and winged her way back toward camp, a new fierceness in her heart. As soon as she touched down in front of Eragon’s –cloth-dwelling she reached out to his mind. Eragon!

She snaked her head into his tent, and didn’t find him in any danger, at least nothing physical. He was laying on his cot, thrashing about. She delved deeper into his mind, to find the source of his panic. A whirl of colors flashed by her, as she was pulled into his dream.

Eragon was standing in a dark clearing, all alone, surrounded by blackness. He was dressed for battle, grime covering his face, his armor bloodstained. Brisingr was not a his hip, he had no weapons. He was not his half-elf self now, but the young farmboy who Saphira had first chosen as her Rider. His face was contorted with immense fear, it was the most terrified Saphira had ever seen him.

Eragon where are we? He did not respond, or even acknowledged her, which was unsettling enough. The darkness was making her uneasy. A pit of dread was forming in her stomach. this place was giving of waves of evil and despair.

Suddenly white figures seemed to swirl around Eragon. their shapes becoming definite, taking on the forms of people. First to be shown was a man she had only seen once, Garrow.

Why did you let this happen Eragon? The mans voice was rough, harsh, his tone full of contempt.
Eragon was in visible pain, tears rolling down his cheeks.

“Uncle I didn’t mean for you to die. If only I had known what I know now. I could’ve…” His eyes widened in shock and he trailed off, as Garrow was replaced by Brom.

Eragon’s tears came faster “Father......”

Brom held up his hand. “You could’ve saved me, my son.” His voice too was harsh and cruel. Eragon recoiled as if the words were a whip and he fell to his knees.

“I’m sorry, I tried to save you, but I wasn’t strong enough.” Brom dissapeared and Eragon broke down even harder as Oromis replaced Brom. His usually serene manner was cold.

“You have only yourself to blame for your loss.” Eragon didn’t look capable of words anymore. He buried his face in his hands. Saphira tried to get his attention again, with just as much success as before. Arya became clear in the white swirl of figures.

Arya? But she is still alive, thought Saphira. Arya didn’t say a word, she just stood silently in there in the mist, until Eragon looked up.

“No... it can't be true.. Arya...He spluttered in shock, the pain on his face was horrible for Saphira to see.. Arya morphed into a larger figure and shock filled Saphira, a feeling completely alien to a Dragon, as she saw herself standing in front of him. The dream-Saphira stared down at him with pitying eyes. Saphira growled at the image of her self, never would she look at Eragon that way.

This seemed to tear him apart completely. “NO! SAPHIRA, NOT YOU!” He sank into the ground and wept. The figures swirled around him, enveloping Eragon in their mist.

Determined to stop this madness, she put all her strength into the probe and yelled, “ERAGON!” The dream ended abruptly and she was staring down at her distraught and broken partner of heart.

Eragon was breathing heavily, sweating, tears silently running down his face. Though he was still his half-elf self, still the powerful Rider that she knew he had become, this moment he was simply a young man who had lost almost everything that he held near and dear.

Oh little one she said gently. Saphira snaked her head into his tent farther. He didn’t say a word, he just wrapped his arms around his legs. She brought her snout to his shoulder, he leaned against her searching for comfort. It pained her to see him so, he was a part of her.

Little one, she tried to soothe him, You know this events were of no fault of your own, and Arya and I are still alive.

He didn’t look up, Saphira its only a matter of time before I do something to lose you too. His mind was full of agony. She hated to be harsh with him like this, but she knew it was for the best.

Eragon snap out of it! We are still here, we are still fighting. You cannot give up hope, For if you give up then we might as well fly right into Uru’baen, unarmed, for all will be lost.

He pulled away and nodded. You are right, Thank you, only you can pull me back from the darkest pits of despair. She licked him lightly and poured all of her love for him across their link. He smiled and returned her love with his own.

There’s, my Eragon, she murmured into his mind. He smiled, and she hummed deep in her throat. He wiped his face of his tears, and he closed his eyes breathing in deep.

There was a sound outside the tent and she withdrew her head. The bright moonlight was beginning to fade, the sun was peaking up around the horizon. Standing there was wolf-elf-Blodhgarm.

“Greetings Brightscales,” he purred, as he twisted his hand in the form of respect. She bowed her head in response. “I heard some noise, from within Shadeslayers tent, is everything alright?” his yellow eyes glinted intensely.

She was glad that Islanzadi was concerned for their well being, but a Dragon does not protection, so the elves who followed them around irritated her at times. Truth be told Eragon had become strong enough so that he did not need body guards, and she certainly didn't need them, but it is better tp be safe then sorry.

Yes Blodhgarm-vohdr everything is fine. He nodded, and stalked away into the shadows, just as Eragon came out of the tent. His gentle gaze was tempered with sadness. He had Brisingr strapped to his hip.

Saphira, can we go flying? I hate this place. I just need to get away from here, it smells of death.

She lowered herself to the ground so he could strap the saddle on, Of course little one, let us be where we are meant to be. After he got the saddle strapped on to her, he crouched low to the ground and lept into the air, landing neatly on her back.

They flew off away from Feinster, just enjoying each others company for the moment, for tomorrow they would be thrust back into politics and death in an attempt to bring down the Dark king.

This post has been edited by sunshine42494: 31 December 2009 - 11:14 AM

[BaneOfGalbatorix]

Good start. I like how you started your story off. By the way, what does your title mean? I don't feel like looking it up right now.

[sunshine42494]

It meas Fire of Truth. I couldn't think of a better name.

[GarrowSon]

Quite good, nice emotions. I gave you 4 stars.

Keep it coming.

[sunshine42494]

Here you go.


Chapter Two- Up in the air.


Eragon sat atop Saphira, the icy wind running over his face like caressing fingers. This was where he belonged, in the air with her, away from the death and despair, on the ground. He started to dwell on the horrible nightmare, but he felt Saphira push it away.

He smiled, not knowing what he would do without her. Still it had frightened him so much, he couldn’t completely let it go. He shut his eyes and rubbed his temples. Faces swam before his eyes. Garrow, sunken in death, Brom a faint smile touching his lips before he was gone forever, Oromis calm and serene, then Saphira's enormous sapphire eye stared at him sadly.

Saphira was the closest thing to family he had left, save for Roran. They were two halves to a whole, of course it horrified him to be separated from her. His thoughts turned to something else, Arya. Thinking she was dead horrified him almost as much as Saphira being dead would. He loved her, and she didn’t love him.

Granted when he’d first made his advances toward her, he hadn’t loved, he lusted. But that lust had grown into something real, and after Arya threatened to cease all contact between them, he’d given up. Heartbroken though he was they managed to create a friendship, which confused him.

One minute she’s distancing herself from him, then she’s falling into his arms. She’s the one who said they could never be, so why- Little one. Saphira halted his thoughts, they would never lead to a good place.

Eragon sighed. Sorry Saphira. The sounds of stones rubbing against each other filled the air. He grinned slightly at her amusement. Right now everything seemed so peaceful. No pressure just Saphira and him, it was so peaceful Eragon decided to just let everything go.

He opened his eyes, momentarily blinded by the rising sun. He threw his head back, arms out and just enjoyed the flight. The rocks got louder and Saphira started humming. Eragon opened his eyes laughing for what felt like the first time in months. His happiness was cut short by a flash of red in the corner of his eye.

No, he thought, it can’t be. But he saw it again. Saphira, we need to get as far away from camp as possible. Confusion washed across their link.

Little one, why? What did-. She stopped as the same flash of red that caught his eye registered with her as well. Eragon gripped Brisingr as Saphira accelerated to the west trying to get as far away from the Varden as possible. Every now and then Eragon would cathch glimpses of red and then it would dissapear.Saphira slowed down once they reached the Spine.

Saphira let me share your sight. His eyesight was good, but not as good as a Dragon’s. He could feel himself leaving his body, then everything became clear.

Flying at them was Thorn. He was still a good 80 feet away, but he was flying fast.The early morning's sun glinted madly off his blood-red scales. With a rush Eragon was back in his body, realizing jut how unfit he was to face his half-brother. He had no armor; all he had was Brisingr, and Aren.

And you have me, Glaedr boomed in their minds.

Ebrithil? Eragon was shocked to hear his master so soon. It had only been a week since his journey into the void

Yes Eragon, Saphira, it is me. I may mourn Oromis, but what kind of master would I be, if I let you, our last hope, die? I will be here to help you defeat this pitiful hatchling.

Eragon was still shocked beyond words, so Saphira let their gratitude wash over their connection. Eragon felt a wave of energy wash into him, and he drew Brisingr. He tightened the defenses on his mind.

“Ready Saphira?” he said aloud, She roared in response. Eragon smiled, she was ready. But am I? How strong would Murtagh be this time? Could they defeat him without the elves?

Thorn halted to a stop in front of them. Murtagh spoke first, “Hello Brother, I see you were expecting us.” Eragon did not feel hatred toward Murtagh, He didn’t kill Oromis, Galbatorix did through him.

“Don’t call me brother” Eragon spoke calmly. He wanted to rid himself of Morzan’s name in every way shape or form.

Murtagh seemed to recoil as if Eragon had struck him instead of spoken, “I didn’t want to kill the elf!”

Hearing Oromis, his master, referred to as the elf, enraged Eragon, all semblance of calm was gone. “Let me guess, you’re here to us to Uru’baen, and if we don’t go willingly, you’ll take us by force?” Eragon couldn’t help but keep a bored tone in his voice.

“Yes, and don’t try to confuse us with talks of true names, because Galbatorix has prevented that.” Murtagh sneered at the Eragon.

“Fine, I won’t try to help you change.” He hated to admit the truth but he needed to get it out there that he had exhausted all possible solutions to free his friend. Murtagh looked a little shocked.

“That’s right Murtagh, its clear to me that anyone who would mount an attack in the middle of the night, doesn’t want to change.” The words flowed from his tongue without him thinking. Saphira growled softly. This attack was an immense act of cowardice in her opinion. Thorn roared at Eragon’s implications, that they liked being owned by Galbatorix.

Eragon, tread carefully, we don’t know how strong he is, and we don’t have the elves to help this time Saphira was cautious, but angry.

Thorn charged at Saphira, but Eragon jumped off right as she flew up. As he sank through the air, he muttered a spell that would cushion his fall. Eragon landed on a thick branch. He agiley hopped down from branch to branch until he hit the forest floor.

After he landed, He saw Murtagh falling through the air in a similar, though less fluid, way. As soon as his feet touched the ground, Eragon charged at him, Brisingr poised to taste blood. Zar’oc was whipped out in time to stop Brisingr from slicing through Murtagh’s neck.

Eragon flipped away from Murtagh who readied himself for another blow. “I see you got a new sword, The elves give it to you?” Murtagh sneered at Brisingr. Eragon laughed for no reason.

“The elves? Oh, no. I forged it myself, meet Brisingr.” As flames erupted from the sword, Eragon could at first see fear in Murtagh’s eyes, then smugness.

Eragon knew what he was thinking, that Brisingr was just an ordinary sword, Eragon had to laugh again. Murtagh charged at Eragon, his strike was blocked, followed by quick parries, as well as some complicated jabs. Alot of force was put behind Murtagh's blows. They locked swords, staring eachother down, a test of strength.

Muratgh forcefully against Brisingr, sparks flying as the brightsteel grated against brightsteel. Eragon felt a sudden surge of energy from Glaedr before he felt his master fade. Eragon pushed Zar'roc away, managing to cut Murtagh on the arm.

All the while Saphira was battling Thorn in the air, their roars deafening any noises that the swords were making on the ground. Eragon endured, he wondered how many Eldunari, Murtagh was using. They momentarily parted as Saphira roared victoriously; she was gliding down to land beside Eragon.

Fear gripped Murtagh’s feature as he searched for Thorn, who was clumsily flying down to meet the ground. Blood was pouring from his left side, what remained of his tail was almost completely gone. Thorn sank to the ground it looked as if he was fighting to stay concious. Murtagh shot Eragon a quick pleading glance and Eragon nodded hurridely.

"Go. Before its too late." Eragon heard the panic in his own voice Murtagh ran to Thorn and began to heal his wounds.

What did you do to him? Eragon looked up at Saphira breifly.

I merely tore off his tail. His bleeding side he did to himself. He tried to attack me but I was too quick and so he mangled himself instead of me. I merely helped. She blew out a small puff of fire. Why are you letting Murtagh heal him?

How could I not? I do not want him to die. Besides what if it was you who was hurt? She sighed in her mind.

You are too benevolent for your own good. One of these days its going to backfire horribly. She stared at Thorn in dismay. Murtagh turned back to Eragon a new fire burning in his eyes.

I think you may be right about the benevolence thing. She snorted, this was one time she did not want to be right.

Murtagh leapt at him and Eragon struggled to parry the blows. Fatigue gripped his muscles, Murtagh was still stronger than him and now he was angry. Eragon dodged and blocked the blows, and Murtagh still managed to strike him on his leg. He resisted crying out, but didn’t succeed when Murtagh stabbed through the right side of his torso, he felt Zar'roc slip between his ribs.

For a moment, time stood still, no one moved. Murtagh's eyes were wide, fearful. He withdrew Zar'roc and stared down at his blade it glimmered with Eragon's blood. Eragon gasped for air, he couldn't breathe, Zar'roc had punctured his lung. He fell foward on his knees, his head spinning

ERAGON! Saphira’s voice screamed in his mind, panicked and angry. Saphira roared and blew a stream of fire that reached 30 feet long. Murtagh moved foward to help Eragon but was stopped as Saphira blew another stream of sapphire fire , blocking his path. Through fading vision Eragon saw Murtagh retreating toward Thorn.

Eragon searched in his mind for the words and the magic to heal his wound. He found them both and managed to choked out the words to heal his lung. He could breathe again. His vision became clearer. As he was about to close the wound, unconciousness threatened to overtake him, and he fell foward onto the grass.

He heard Murtagh calling out his name frantically, but he could not respond. Saphira roared again and he felt himself slip alittle further. The last thing he felt was Saphira gently picking him up in her mouth and laying him on her back.

This post has been edited by sunshine42494: 30 December 2009 - 10:22 PM

[GarrowSon]

“Let me guess, you’re here to take ? us to Uru’baen, and if we don’t go willingly, you’ll be forced to take us by force?”

Eragon had to laugh again. Murtagh charged at Eragon, and his strike was blocked, followed by quick parries, and as well as some complicated jabs. All the while Saphira was battling Thorn in the air, their roars deafening any noises that the swords were making on the ground. Eragon was tiring quickly, and he wondered how many Eldunari, Murtagh was using.

Fear gripped Murtagh’s feature as he searched for Thorn, who was clumsily flying down to meet the ground. Blood was pouring from his left side,. What remained of his tail was almost gone completely gone. Murtagh turned back to Eragon, a fire burning in his eyes. He leapt at him and Eragon struggled to parry the blows. Fatigue gripped his muscles, and Murtagh struck him on the leg. Eragon resisted crying out, but he didn’t succeed. when Then Murtagh stabbed him again through the right side of his torso. ERAGON! Saphira’s voice roared in his mind, as Eragon fell to the ground stuttering for breath. Saphira roared and blew a stream of fire that reached 30 feet long. Eragon choked out the words to heal the organs but as he was about to close the wound, darkness overtook him. The last thing he saw was Saphira gently picking him up in her mouth and laying him on her back.

Interesting chapter. I have gone through and done a bit of editing.

You over use "and". Also don't put a comma before and eg ", and" either "," or "and" not both
There is also and over use of comma's.

Nice story though. I look forward to the next chapter.

This post has been edited by GarrowSon: 21 June 2009 - 01:30 AM

[sunshine42494]

Sorry for taking so long, and that its short, but I'm an underclassmen taking senior level classes so my finals schedule is kinda nuts. I'l try for another update tonite.
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Chapter three-Losing hope


Arya walked through the camps of the Varden killing time before the strategy meeting that morning.

She had wandered over to Eragon’s tent, and was saddened to see he was not there. Why this saddened her, was the source of debate within her mind that morning.

He’s my friend, I wanted to talk to him, she thought, but something was nagging at her. If he was just a friend then why did she cry openly in front of him? If he was just a friend then why did she fall into his arms?

He’s a really good friend? Her small voice suggested. She shook her head in disbelief, did she really just suggest that?

She spoke aloud, “Face it Arya you are feeling something, but what?” She heard footsteps and she turned around, a small boy was running toward her.

“Shadeslayer…, Lady Nasuada calls for you.” He panted. “Thank you Jarsha” she said quietly as she broke into a stride.

She could feel the boy’s astonished eyes on her as she left. He mind was unguarded and easy to sense. She reached Nasuada’s tent within minutes.

“Arya Shadeslayer, here for the meeting.” she said to the Nighthawks who guarded the tent. She rather liked the name she shared with Eragon; it was a reminder that they would always have each other to go to in a time of need.

After the guards had announced her presence, Nasuada called, “Yes, yes, come in!” Her voice was filled with worry.

Arya walked into the tent, afraid of what would make Nasuada sound like that. Blodhgarm was in the tent as well, he nodded to her, and she to him.

“Nasuada, what is it” Arya inquired. One look at her face and she knew. “Where is Eragon?” Arya’s voice was surprisingly calm despite the torrent of emotions that reeled within her mind.

“Thats the problem! We do not know!” Nasuada sounded on the verge of tears, revealing very briefly just how young she was. Blodhgarm spoke.

“Early this morning I saw Saphira and Eragon take off flying west, and I haven’t seen them since.” Some calm washed over Arya, Saphira was with him.

“Where could the-“ Arya stopped, and listened. She could hear flapping, it was faint but she could hear it. Saphira had returned!

“What?” Nasuada asked, “What is it?” Arya didn’t answer she ran out of the tent toward the field that had been cleared out for Saphira to land in. Blodhgarm had followed her and Nasuada wasn’t far behind.

Saphira landed slowly, carefully, it was only then that Arya saw the scratches and tears within her wing’s membranes and what Arya did not see was Eragon sitting upon her back.

“Saphira what happened?” Arya spoke, her voice almost betraying how worried she was.

Murtagh. Saphira said the name as though it were a curse.

“He took Eragon to Uru’baen?” Nasuada inquired. Saphira didn’t answer; instead she reached her neck around to her saddle, and picked something up in her mouth.

At first Arya thought it was Brisingr, but as Saphira gently laid down what was in her mouth, any color left in Arya’ s face, was gone.

There on the ground in front of her was Eragon.

His tunic was covered in blood, which was flowing from the gash in his chest. He was so pale he looked to be dead. Arya hurried to his side hoping for a pulse. She almost fainted from relief as she found one. Nasuada had fallen to her knees.

“Saphira, what happened?” Arya began to heal him, surprised that the only thing that was damaged was the skin.

We had gone flying, just to relax, and everything was fine, until Eragon told me to fly as far away from the camps as possible. I was confused at first but then I saw why. Thorn had been trying to sneak up on us, but Eragon realized what was happening before I did. We fought them and I defeated Thorn, but I’m afraid that Murtagh became so infuriated seeing Thorn the way he was that , is the main cause for Eragon’s current state. He healed the tissue, and most of the wound, but he passed out before he could stop the bleeding.

Saphira became silent, worry emanating from her Sapphire eyes.

“He’s alive, but he wont be awake anytime soon. He lost a lot of blood.” Arya stood and Saphira picked Eragon up again, heading for his tent.

As she watched the Sapphire Dragoness walking away, she felt a sensation of wanting to follow, but she needed to stay with Nasuada.

“I can’t believe he would risk this” Nasuada said incredulously. Arya turned toward her.

“He flew away from the Varden so no one else needed to get hurt” Arya was surprised that Nasuada didn’t see this.

“Yes but if he had died then all of our hope, our chances of winning this blasted war would be gone!” Arya felt the unexplainable want to punch Nasuada.

"I can not believe you are criticizing his judgment on this" Nasuada opened her mouth for a rebuttal, but Arya kept going.

"Yes it was dangerous, but Eragon did what he had to, to keep everyone else safe. He worries not only about the Varden, but of every living creature in Alagaesia, it’s his duty as a Rider.”

With that Arya turned and left, anger simmering quietly, mixed with confusion at what she had just done. She headed toward Eragon’s tent, leaving a stunned Nasuada and an intrigued Blodhgarm in her wake.

This post has been edited by sunshine42494: 28 June 2009 - 10:24 PM

[Slayers or Shades]

Hmmmm... Nice story so far, strange start to begin with and nice how you got them into a battle with Thorna dn Murtagh, but I hope they can still become friends once again

I hope you can update soon,

SoS

[sunshine42494]

Chapter Four- The wisdom of a Dragon

Why did I do that? Arya was walking along the soft grass outside of Feinster. Yes he is my friend, and yes she was being unfair, but why would the things she said make me want to punch her?

She reached the blue tent which was partially visible behind Saphira’s bulk.

For a moment Arya only stared, it really was amazing how the egg she had carried for so long, could have grown into this beautiful, and amazing creature.

Hello Arya. Saphira’s vast consciousness washed over her, pulling her out of her reflection.

Hello Saphira. How is he? Saphira pulled her head out of the tent and moved so Arya was staring into one enormous blue eye.

No better or worse. Saphira blinked one scaly lid, when she reopened her eye, Arya could see a deep pride mixed in with worry for her Rider.

Saphira, he almost died, why didn’t he come for help? That is why he has 12 elven guards, so they can help him.

Arya was asking the same question Nasuada had, but for different reasons.

Eragon confused her at times, she knew why he had not came to the camp, but why not call for help, Blohdgarm was awake, he would have gladly given Eragon the energy to beat Murtagh.

He is tired of hiding behind others, He thinks he needs to become stronger. We both do. You will not be able to help us when he fights Galbatorix. That is a challenge we must face alone.

Arya nodded slowly, still feeling confused. She hoped she’d be able to hide this from Saphira, but you can’t hide much from a Dragon, especially Saphira.

I can still feel confusion in you, but it has nothing to do with this. Saphira locked one huge blue eye with Arya’s emerald ones.

I’m just confused about my feelings for someone. Its hard to speak of what I do not know myself.

Saphira was silent for a time, as if she was mulling this over, then Arya I will let this be for now, but if you ever want to speak with me, about anything, you know where to find me.

Saphira touched her snout to Arya’s forehead.

Thank you Saphira. Arya smiled for what felt like the first time in years.

Saphira turned her head back to the tent, Arya walked in, wanting to help. There on a cot was Eragon, still looking as pale as a corpse.

Saphira can you help me? Arya wanted to try to regenerate some of the blood he lost, at least enough to get his circulation flowing.

What do I need to do?

Just be here to lend me energy if I need it. Arya put her hand on Eragon’s chest, and dug within her mind for the magic.

Once she reached it, she whispered “Blood re-grow” in the ancient language.

Immediately she felt a drain on her strength, then she felt Saphira pouring energy into her. As the seconds passed, Eragon grew less pale and under Arya’s palm she could feel his heartbeat get stronger.

After about a minute she removed her hand and almost collapsed from the weariness she felt in her. Saphira nosed her head in and supported her weight.

Once Arya’s head stopped spinning she twisted her hand over her sternum and said “Eka elrun ono.”
Saphira nudged her into a chair.

Thank you for helping my Rider. Now rest Alfa-Kona.

Saphira removed her head from the tent and curled up in front of the opening. Arya closed her eyes, and tried to will her mind to calm down.

Her mind was buzzing with questions, all about the rider laying on the cot in front of her.

She wished she could talk to him, she missed his company. Her little voice piped in, Okay Arya, just stop thinking about him, it will only give you headaches.

Easier said than done she retorted. Vaguely Arya could feel herself being drawn to her waking dreams, she tried to find the motivation to get up and go to her tent, but found none.

As she drifted off she heard Saphira, Good night, Alfa-Kona, sweet dreams.

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Next chapter is a Murtagh point of view.

This post has been edited by sunshine42494: 28 June 2009 - 10:32 PM

[holyknight]

Hmmmm... Nice story so far, strange start to begin with and nice how you got them into a battle with Thorna dn Murtagh, but I hope they can still become friends once again

I hope you can update soon,

SoS

Me too. I really like the way you portray the relationship between Arya and Saphira.

A Murtagh pov would be nice too. I just hope he and Thorn become friend with Eragon and Saphira, I just hope so.

Anyway, great story.

[sunshine42494]

I am very proud of myself. Two chapters in one day.
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Chapter Five- A slave no more

Murtagh could still feel the tears on his cheeks as Thorn flew through the air. His mind kept replaying Eragon collapsing after he had stabbed him through the chest.

He had killed his brother, even if Eragon had refused to acknowledge him as his blood, that’s what they were. I killed my brother, Murtagh’s tears came afresh.

Young one you do not know that. Thorn’s consciousness tried to calm him, but Murtagh was so distraught he almost shouted back over their link.

You don’t get stabbed in the chest, then fall unconscious and live! Thorn did not respond, the chances that Eragon was still alive were slim to none.

Trying to change the subject, Murtagh asked, How’s your tail?

Murtagh had healed Thorn as best as he could, including the burns from Saphira’s wrath after Eragon had fallen.

I am feeling better, but it will not matter in about ten minutes, we will have new wounds to nurse. Murtagh grimaced, he knew his Dragon was right.

They had returned empty handed again, and this time, Eragon was dead, so the king would be furious.
Murtagh felt a familiar kind, but immensely sad mind brush their barriers. Hello Shruikan.

Young ones, I see you return empty handed again, he will not be pleased. The coal black dragon that was their only ally in this dark forsaken place sounded worried, he had a right to be too.

The last time Murtagh had been punished, he had almost died, and was ill for almost 4 days. We have a reason for being alone, and its worse the if we had simply failed our mission.

Young ones, what happened. I sense a great sorrow in you Murtagh. Thorn flew up to the keep where Shruikan was waiting for them.

Murtagh replayed what had happened, and shock filled Shruikan filled with an even greater sorrow.

I am so sorry, Murtagh. I know how badly you feel about this. Suddenly Murtagh felt a great power filling within the great black dragon, A power that can only be associated with magic.

Shruikan touched his snout to Thorn’s tail, and a flash of light occurred, blinding Murtagh for a moment. As he regained his sight he, Thorn’s tail came into view, fully grown as it had not been for so long.

Gratitude filled Thorn, Murtagh was stunned. He’d seen Dragon magic do great things, Saphira had turned sandstone into diamond, but even Galbatorix had said Thorn’s tail couldn’t be re-grown.

Do not give me thanks, come he is waiting. Shruikan led the way to the throne room, down the enlarged tunnel that had been built specifically for him.

Murtagh was dreading what was going to happen. As they reached the cold horrible room in which Alagaesia was being destroyed, bit by bit, Murtagh felt a chill, the moment he’d been dreading the entire trip.

“Greetings Murtagh” A rich deep voice reached him, how he hated that voice. Shruikan went to sit behind the map of Alagaesia, behind the throne.

Thorn sat behind Murtagh who moved directly in front of Galbatorix. “Greetings my king

“I see return alone, again” The rich voice that had once entranced him, took on a chilling tone.

“Yes My king” Galbatorix’s dark grey eyes met Murtagh’s dark brown ones.

“Explain yourself. I’ve increased your power tenfold, and yet you return without Eragon.” Murtagh had to fight to keep the quiver out of his voice as he had to repeat what had happened once again.

“There was nothing to return with my king” Galbatorix held his stare never wavering in his intensity. “Eragon is-“ he faltered. Thorn poured calm into his mind, urging him to just say it. “Eragon is dead.”

Galbatorix’s grey eyes widened slightly, and for the first time Murtagh saw shock within the Dark king.

Instead of speaking Galbatorix pushed against the barriers that surrounded his mind. Murtagh did not fight it as he usually would, showing Galbatorix what had happened was easier the explaining it.

“Why did you not try to heal him?” Murtagh fought to keep the tears back.

“Believe me I would have but as soon as he- he fell Saphira torched us, only supporting my belief that he is dead.” Galbatorix was silent and as immovable as a stone.

“Thorn who healed your tail?” Murtagh did not want to get Shruikan in trouble, apparently neither did Thorn who said,

My king, I felt the urge to use magic after Eragon fell, and I healed myself so as lessen the pain he was feeling, from our bond. Shruikan touched their mind, Filling them with gratitude.

Finally a smile broke out upon Galbatorix’s face. Murtagh was appalled.

Galbatorix walked up to him and grasped his forearms. He smiled and started laughing.

“M-my king” Murtagh was very confused, why was he laughing.

“You’ve basically eliminated our opposition!” The mad king laughed again.

“But, what about Saphira?” Galbatorix released his forearms and walked to Thorn patting his scales lightly. Shock filled Thorn as well, Galbatorix had never touched him unless it was to inflict pain.

Shruikan what’s happening? Murtagh was still wary, and a little frightened.

Young one, I am just as confused as you. In all of the years I‘ve been his captive, he has never acted like this.

“Saphira will be distraught at the loss of her Rider, It will be easy to capture her now.” Galbatorix was all but jumping up and down with glee.

Galbatorix walked toward the doors that would cause him to exit the throne room. Before he left he turned to face Murtagh.

“You’ve done well” Murtagh was even more shocked, Galbatorix had never thrown a kind word his way.

In his shock Murtagh was angry. He had killed his brother, and that mad king was rejoicing. In his anger and sadness he felt something click, inside the deep confines of both his and Thorns mind.

Congratulations Young ones, You are free Shruikan’s normally depressed tone sounded remotely happy.

What? Thorn understood though, after being a slave all his life, any change would be significant.

Murtagh we are free. We can act of our own accord! Joy filled Murtagh, then resolve, he had to make things right.

Thorn we are going to the Varden.

This post has been edited by sunshine42494: 28 June 2009 - 10:39 PM

[sunshine42494]

Chapter six- Surprise, Surprise.

Saphira opened her eyes, and reflected on what had happened the day before. She felt more confidence in Eragon’s recovery after what Arya had done.

Saphira’s suspicions were confirmed. Arya, despite her oath at the Agaeti Blohdren, did feel something more than friendship towards her Rider.

Saphira tried to shake the fuzziness from her mind but her thoughts were interrupted by her stomach. She had never hunted, Eragon’s panic had brought her back too soon.

Saphira reached out for the mind of the blood-wolf-elf-Blohdgarm, which she found sitting in a strategy meeting with the Varden leaders.

Greetings Brightscales, his deep accented purr echoed in her mind as he let her in, What do you require?

She hated having to check in with him. I am going hunting. What do the leaders know of Eragon?

Nothing, Nasuada only said you were out scouting and will be back later.

That’s good, she thought to herself, The Varden do not need to know that their lantern of hope is injured.

Across the link she replied Thank you, Blohdgarm-vohdr.

She withdrew from his mind and was about to take off but a thought occurred to her, Eragon’s nestmate Roran would want to know of his cousin’s condition.

She reached back out to the red-cloth-dwelling-where -politics-occurred and found the very bored mind of Roran sitting close to Nasuada. She tapped gently at his mind until he let her in.

Saphira? He was cautious, he still did not know her mind very well.

Hello Stronghammer. Roran was one of the few people outside of Eragon that she kept her soft gentle tone with.

How are you able to reach me if you are not in camp? A little surprise washed through her, Nasuada had not even shared the truth with Eragon’s family?

Roran, Eragon and I are in camp, we did not go scouting. This morning Eragon battled Murtagh. Silence was the only thing that emanated across their link. Saphira continued.

Eragon lost and he is currently unconscious from blood loss in his tent. Shock and concern reached her across their connection.

Thank you for telling me Saphira.

Roran closed his mind and Saphira stood up and arched her back. She was about to take off, when she saw Roran running toward the tent.

“I told Nasuada my family needed me.” He panted. “How is he?”

Arya regenerated some of his blood, so he is better, but still unconscious. Roran’s eyes widened.

“You can do that?”

Magic can do great things.

Roran nodded, and motioned to the tent, “May I go in?”

Saphira dipped her head saying, Of course, But tread quietly, Arya is in there, she lost a lot of energy while healing Eragon.
Roran nodded, a bemused look across his features. Saphira knew why, he was thinking back to that night outside of Helgrind where he and Eragon talked of love.

Saphira took off, her hunger winning the battle over the want to stay.

The wind rushed over her scales as she searched for food. About Twenty miles from the Varden she spotted a pack of deer.

Saphira glided silently down to the soft mossy earth. Calm down you silly creatures, I will not harm you.

She had always wanted to try to seduce her prey into wanting to be eaten, but she never had the time.

Come now, she cooed as gently as she could. To her initial surprise,( it was a feeling that seemed to be becoming more permanent, she didn’t know if she liked it ) The deer stopped scurrying away, some even moved closer to her.

She pounced and caught them easily. After she had eaten her fill, and was cleaning her claws, a sour taste filled her mouth.

I do not think I will try that again, it does not feel as if that is something I should be doing.

In an attempt to rid the sour feeling from her mouth Saphira walked over to the lake that the deer had been grazing near.

As she lapped the water up, she heard a faint noise, that sounded distinctly like the flapping of a Dragon’s wings.

She looked up above her, sure enough the pitiful excuse for a dragon, was flying above her. She let out a roar, at which blood-scales-murderer-thorn looked down and started to land.

What do you two want? She started a low growl, her voice was as menacing as her roar. These two murderers had almost taken Eragon from her! What in the world could they be doing here? Traitor-to –their-race-thorn landed in front of her, and she saw that his tale had been re-grown.

I will say it once again, What are you doing here? Murtagh jumped off of Thorn and it was then that Saphira saw the tortured agony in his eyes. She held her glare, her menacing growl never stopping once.

“Saphira please, just listen. I am deeply sorry about Eragon’s death.”

Death? He thought he killed Eragon? Saphira realized what it must have looked like from the outside, for a brief moment, she felt pity for Murtagh, the reason for agony that was splayed across his face, becoming clear.

Saphira wanted to find their purpose so she did not bother to correct him.

Why should I listen to you? First you take away, Glaedr, now Eragon? Tell me why I should listen to a puppet of the king.

“Because, we are puppets no longer!” Murtagh’s voice was shaky, and his eyes glistened. “Eragon’s death has brought about our freedom. I felt such remorse and grief for what I had done it changed my name.” He took a deep breath, “Both of our names. We’ve come to help the Varden.”

I do not trust you, she needed to tell Arya and Eragon, once he woke up.

“You do not have to! I am just relieved you even let us speak.”

Saphira gave them a glance. Thorn had been silent the entire time, so it surprised her when he touched her mind.

My Rider speaks the truth, we wish to help. His mind was very kind, but young, she could feel it.

“Please Saphira.”

I will go to the camps and relay what you have said. In two days I will be back with someone to deal with you., Hopefully Eragon will be well. Stay here until then, The dwarves have not forgotten the Burning Plains.

Without another word she took off, winging her way back to camp with a shocking surprise.

This post has been edited by sunshine42494: 28 June 2009 - 10:51 PM

[Slayers or Shades]

I have to say, real nice
I liked how Roran reacted to the fact of Eragon being injured and Arya in his tent

I hope you can update soon

Your addicted reader,

SoS

[sunshine42494]

Does anyone know how long has passed between Eragon and Brisingr?

[Venture]

First off your story is awesome! And as for your question in Eldest Trianna say Eragon has been a rider for just under 2 years and Brisingr takes place over about 7 weeks. So I'd say it's been about 2 years between Eragon and Brisingr.