Sign In
Register
Help
SCRIPT
1.Rise and Fall of the Riders
New Line Cinema is shown (no music playing).
Brom (narrating): There was a time in which Alagaesia prospered. For generations dragons and Dragons Riders protected the world. But now those days are long gone.
The title “Inheritance” is shown.
THE SEA-DAY
It shows elves on a ship coming to the world of Alagaesia.
Brom (narrating): It began when the elves first came to Alagaesia.
FARTHEN DUR-DAY
It shows a group of dwarves walking around Tronjheim and dragons flying around.
Brom (narrating): Over five thousand years before their arrival, dwarves and dragons ruled the land of Alagaesia.
The elves are seen landing on the shore.
Brom (narrating): Alagaesia was a peaceful land. But it was not to last.
Brom (narrating): One day, a young elf went out and killed a dragon, thinking of it as a mere hunting game.
DRAGON LAIR-DAY
An elf is seen killing a dragon. As he killed the dragon, two more dragons came out of hiding and breathed fire at the elf, burning him. The screen fades to black.
THE MOUNTAINS-AFTERNOON
A great war between dragons and elves was shown.
Brom (narrating): Ever since that day, the dragons brought havoc upon Alagaesia, killing thousands. The elves did not want to fight the dragons, but did so in order to protect themselves.
It continues to show the war for 2 minutes.
A young elf is seen picking up a white dragon egg over the edge of a cliff.
Brom (narrating): Until one day, after the war had lasted for five years, a young elf named Eragon took a dragon egg and raised the dragon as his own. He named the white dragon Bid’Daum using the ancient language, a language that was this land’s original language until it was forgotten, but was brought back by the elves once they arrived.
It shows Eragon (elf) on Bid’Daum’s back, flying above Alagaesia.
Brom (narrating): Once Bid’Daum grew to a good size they flew all over Alagaesia. Ever since that time, there was peace in Alagaesia. For countless centuries, the world lived in a time without cruelty and fear.
A young rider on his dragon is shown.
Brom (narrating): But then, over two thousand years later, a young rider named Galbatorix was taught under the other Dragon Riders when he was just a child. Galbatorix had become the pride of the Dragon Riders, for he was the most powerful of the Riders, surpassing every other student.
Galbatorix is seen studying magic, ancient language, and sword training.
Brom (narrating): His skills at using magic and swordplay were extraordinary. However, when Glabatorix and his friends went camping in the Spine one day after his training was finished, Urgals attacked them.
THE SPINE-NIGHT
Ten Urgals are seen attacking Galbatorix and his friends. They slew Galbatorix’s friends, killing their dragons as well. An Urgal shot an arrow at Galbatorix’s dragon, hitting it in the heart. The dragon falls to the ground, dead. Galbatorix came to his dragon’s side. Tears ran down his eyes.
Brom (narrating): The Urgals killed his friends and his dragon. And in a blind rage…
Galbatorix, filled with anger, attacks and kills the Urgals. The Urgal that killed his dragon shot at him with arrows, but Galbatorix ran at him and deflected them with magic. When Galbatorix was close enough, he slashed off the Urgal’s arm holding the bow, and swirls around and cuts off his head. The headless body falls to the ground.
Brom (narrating): …he killed them all.
Galbatorix is traveling through the Spine to get to Vroengard.
Brom (narrating): For weeks, he traveled to Vroengard, the capital of the Dragon Riders. No Urgals, wolfs, bears, or other animals attacked him due to his frightful appearance. Once he returned…
VROENGARD-NIGHT
Galbatorix: What!?
Vrael: I’m sorry, Galbatorix. But we will not give you a new dragon.
Brom (narrating): He asked for a new dragon, but was denied. His mind was filled with madness after his dragon’s death. Angry, Galbatorix came to believe that it was the elders’ fault that his dragon was killed. He sent a corrupted Dragon Rider to kill the elders, who had managed to kill some of them. After killing them, Galbatorix kills the assassin.
The Dragon Rider comes to Galbatorix telling him of his progress. After that, Galbatorix drew his sword and ran him through, killing him.
URU’BAEN-NIGHT
Galbatorix is seen slicing off the head of a Rider.
Brom: During that time, he took a dragon egg that contained Shruikan, a black dragon, and killed his original Rider before they made contact.
Galbatorix puts a hand on Shruikan and used dark magic to control Shruikan. It shows him talking with a Rider.
Brom (narrating): He also met Morzan, a mighty and powerful Dragon Rider. They left the Dragon Riders sight and went into hiding.
THE BURNING PLAINS-DAY
A battle between Dragon Riders and their dragons is shown around the mountains of Alagaesia.
Brom (narrating): Soon after this, twelve other Dragon Riders joined him in an alliance called the Forsworn, a group of those that opposed the other Dragon Riders. Morzan was also one of them and the king’s most loyal and favorite servant.
THE GATES OF UTGARD MOUNTAIN-DAY
Brom (narrating): All of the Riders were slain except for Galbatorix, Morzan, and Vrael, the leader of the Dragon Riders. Galbatorix and Vrael fought before the gates of Utgard Mountain.
Galbatorix on Shruikan is seen fighting Vrael and his dragon in midair. When the dragon lunged at him, he dodged and struck it in the heart, killing it. Vrael and Galbatorix jumped off their dragons and fought in a sword fight on the ground. After a few minutes of battling, Vrael cut Galbatorix’s leg. He fell to the ground. Vrael raised his sword to strike.
Brom (narrating): In an intense battle, Vrael bested Galbatorix, but hesitated to kill him. Galbatorix took the opportunity to strike him.
Galbatorix struck Vrael in the side. Vrael falls to the ground. Galbatorix pointed his sword towards Vrael’s neck.
Galbatorix: You should have killed me when you had the chance.
He raised his sword and swung it, beheading Vrael. Vrael’s head and headless body falls to the ground. Galbatorix comes to Vrael’s head and kicked it.
Brom (narrating): Afterwards, he went to Ilirea and slain the king.
ILLIREA (URU’BAEN)-NIGHT
It shows a tall door being blown down by magic.
King Angrenost: Who goes there!?
Suddenly, a sword flew out of the smoke and ran through Angrenost, killing him.
Galbatorix comes out of the smoke and takes Angrenost’s crown. Galbatorix grabs the corpse, pulls his sword out, and throws the body to the floor.
Galbatorix: Brisingr. (Fire.)
Angrenost’s corpse catches on fire and disintegrates.
Brom (narrating): And ever since that day, Galbatorix had ruled over Alagaesia.
FIELDS-NIGHT
It shows Galbatorix and the Forsworn fighting against the elves, humans, and dwarves in an open field for 1 minute.
Brom (narrating): The residents of Alagaesia fought against the corrupted Riders, but were defeated. King Evandar, the previous ruler of the elves was killed in the battle.
Galbatorix kills King Evandar.
Brom (narrating): I went around Alagaesia to find outcasts and prisoners to form an organization known as the Varden.
It shows battles between the Varden and the Empire. It shows a text saying “1 Year Later”.
Brom (narrating): Over eight decades later, a spy was able to steal one of the dragon eggs, but he fled and was attacked by Morzan.
Morzan kills the spy.
Brom (narrating): My friend Jeod, a merchant, and I went to Gil’ead to steal the egg. And there, I had a battle with Morzan.
GIL’EAD-NIGHT
Shows “84 Years Later”.
Brom is seen fighting Morzan, his former friend, atop Gil’ead. They are fighting for 1½ minute Morzan knocks Brom’s sword out of his hand. Morzan tried to run through Brom, but Brom dodged, grabbed Zar’roc, which was Morzan’s red sword, and ran Morzan through the heart. When Brom pulled Zar’roc out, Morzan tumbled off the fortress to his death. With his death, his dragon also died.
Brom (narrating): I fought my former friend and killed him with his own sword. Jeod only managed to steal one of the eggs, but we were separated.
Jeod is seen on a horse running from Gil’ead holding a blue dragon egg.
Brom (narrating): The egg was transported all over Alagaesia, and was eventually brought to Ellesmera, the home of the elves.
ELLESMERA-DAY
The egg is seen on a table in Ellesmera. An elf is seen approaching it. The egg didn’t hatch.
Brom (narrating): For years, elves approached the egg to see if it would hatch for anyone of them, but to no avail. Once every year, the egg was also taken to the Varden to see if it would hatch for a human. Galbatorix eventually discovered the location of the egg. Hearing of this, Arya, an ally of the Varden, ran away with the egg, with two elves to accompany her.
2.Urgal Ambush
DU WELDENVARDEN (THE GUARDING FOREST)-NIGHT
Shows “15 Years Later”
Arya and her accomplices are on horseback and are riding through the woods in the night.
UrRU’BAEN-NIGHT
Meanwhile, at Galbatorix’s lair…
Galbatorix (to Durza): Capture the egg and it’s guardian.
Durza bows and leaves.
DU WELDENVARDEN-NIGHT
Back in the woods, Durza signals the Urgals to hide behind the trees or bushes. As the elves and their steeds approached, their white steeds stood up in fear.
Durza (to the Urgals): Fire!
The Urgals shoot at the elves and their horses, killing all except Arya. Arya gets up, picks up the dragon egg and runs through the woods. Durza follows her.
When Arya reached a clearing…
Durza: Istalri boetk! (Broad fire!)
The surrounding forest bursts into flames, with no trace of escape. Durza comes walking through the fire towards Arya.
Durza: Give it to me…
Arya (drawing her sword): Durza.
Durza: …and I’ll let you live.
Arya: Is there any who trusts the word of a Shade?
Arya lifts up the dragon egg. She speaks in the Ancient Language to send the egg to a different location. As she did…
Durza: Garjzla! (Light!)
Durza shoots a bolt of lightning at Arya to prevent the egg from being transported, but it was too late. The egg disappeared from Arya’s hand. She falls to the ground.
3.Discovery in the Spine
THE SPINE-DAWN
Elsewhere, Eragon is seen approaching a deer, as he shoots an arrow at the deer, there was a flash of light. As the light fades, the deer had run away and there was a blue stone on the ground.
DU WELDENVARDEN-NIGHT
Back in the woods, Durza is torturing Arya with magic.
Durza (angry): Where did you send it?
Arya: Poor Durza. How will you tell the king…you failed?
Angry, Durza continues to torture Arya with magic.
THE SPINE-DAWN
Eragon approaches the stone, picks it up, and looks at it.
DU WELDENVARDEN-NIGHT
Arya looks up into the sky and falls unconscious with a smile on her face.
The screen fades to black.
4.Carvahall
CARVAHALL-MORNING
The town of Carvahall is shown. The title “Eragon” is seen.
There was snow on the ground, meaning that it was winter. Eragon is walking to Sloan’s meat shop. Sloan is seen cutting meat. Eragon enters the shop.
Sloan: Well if it isn’t the hunter of Carvahall. How many have you killed this time?
Eragon: None.
Sloan: That’s surprising. So why have you come here? To buy meat? Then get out your money.
Eragon: I don’t have any money, but I do have something to trade.
Eragon reached into his bag and brought out the blue stone. Sloan looked at it with great interest.
Eragon: I found it early this morning.
Sloan (looking at the stone): Stole it more likely.
Eragon: Will you trade this stone for some meat?
Sloan: Of course, but before I do, may I asked you where you found this?
Eragon: I found it in the Spine when-
Sloan (pushes the egg to Eragon): Get Out!
Eragon (surprised): Why?
Sloan: I won’t deal with anything from those cursed mountains! Take it somewhere else. I won’t sell you any meat unless it’s in coins.
Just then, Horst and Katrina, Sloan’s daughter, came in.
Katrina: What’s going on?
Sloan: Nothing. This boy came in and begged me to give him some meat.
Horst (to Eragon): Is this true?
Eragon: No! I offered this stone as payment for some meat, and he accepted. When I told him I found it in the Spine, he refused.
Horst looked at the blue stone.
Horst (to Sloan): Why won’t you trade with him, Sloan? I’ve no love for the Spine as well, but if it’s a question of the stone’s worth, I’ll pay for it.
Sloan: This is my store. I can do whatever I want.
Katrina: Father, if Eragon is willing to pay, give him the meat.
Sloan (angry): Silence! Go back home! This is none of your business!
Katrina leaves with a stiff back.
Horst: Fine, you can deal with me. Eragon, what were you going to get?
Eragon: As much as I could.
Horst put a pile of coins on Sloan’s cutting table.
Horst: Give me your best roasts and steaks.
After a few minutes, Sloan came with a pile of meat. Eragon put it all in his pack. Eragon and Horst leave the shop and walked through Carvahall.
Eragon: Sorry that you had to pay for the meat.
Horst: It’s all right. I’ve wanted to do that for a long time. Katrina saw the argument between you and Sloan and she came to me.
Eragon: Why did he act so cruel? He accepts our money, even though we’re not friendly towards each other. And I’ve never seen him act that way towards his own daughter.
Horst: Ask your uncle. I don’t know anything about it.
Eragon reached into his pouch and brought out the blue stone.
Eragon: Here, have this.
Horst (laughs): No thank you. You can keep it. As for payment, Albriech plans to leave for Feinster next spring. He wants to become a master smith, and I need an assistant. You can come along and work off the debt on your spare days.
Eragon (bowing): Thank you. I look forward to working with you. Oh, and by the way, Roran wanted me to give Katrina a message, but since I can’t, can you tell her for me?
Horst: Yes.
Eragon: He wants her to know that he’ll come into town as soon as the merchants arrive and that he will see her. He also wanted her to know that she is the most beautiful girl he has ever seen and that he thinks of nothing else.
Horst (grinning): Getting serious is he?
Eragon: Yes, sir. Could you also give her my thanks? It was nice of her to stand up to her father for me.
Horst (smiling): I will. By the way, would you like to sup with us?
Eragon: I’m sorry, but I can’t, Uncle is expecting me.
Eragon returned to his uncle’s farm.
GARROW’S FARM-NIGHT
Eragon entered the hut.
Eragon: I’m home!
Garrow, Eragon’s uncle and Roran’s father, came to Eragon.
Garrow: Shh, Roran’s sleeping.
Eragon came to the dinner table and put his pouch on the table and got out the meat.
Garrow: Did you buy meat?
Eragon: No, Horst bought it for us.
Garrow: Eragon, what did I tell you?
Eragon: I know. We do not accept charity. Don’t worry, I didn’t. Horst agreed to let me work off the debt this spring. He needs someone to help him while Albriech is out of town.
Garrow: And where will you get the time to work for him? Are you going to ignore all the things that need to be done here?
Eragon: I don’t know how I’ll do it. Besides, I found something that could be worth some money.
Eragon got out the blue stone and set it on the table.
Garrow: Where’d you get this?
Eragon: I found it while I was hunting early this morning.
Garrow: Well, it may be of some value. How was the weather this morning?
Eragon: Cold. It didn’t snow, but it froze each night.
Garrow: Tomorrow, you’ll have to help Roran finish harvesting the barley. If we can get the squash picked, the frost won’t bother us. When the traders come, we’ll find out how much it’s worth. Another thing, why did Horst pay for the meat?
Eragon explained what happened at Sloan’s shop.
Eragon: I just don’t understand why he was angry.
Garrow (shrugs): Sloan’s wife, Ismira, went over the Igualda Falls a year before your mother brought you here. Sloan hated the Spine ever since that day. But I also think he did want to cause you trouble back there.
Eragon went to bed and slept for a while.
The next morning, Eragon woke up when the sun’s rays hit his face. Eragon went downstairs to find Roran and Garrow eating breakfast.
Roran: Good morning, Eragon.
Eragon: Morning, Roran and Uncle Garrow.
Eragon sat at the table and ate some breakfast.
Roran: So, did you talk to Katrina about me?
Eragon: I didn’t get a chance to after arguing with her father. I told Horst to tell her for me. She’ll be expecting you at the time the traders come to town.
Roran: You told Horst? That was private. If I wanted everyone to know about Katrina and I, I would have built a bonfire and used smoke signals to communicate. If Sloan finds out, he won’t let me see her again.
Eragon: I’m sure Horst won’t tell him.
During the day, Eragon and Roran gathered squash, rutabagas, beets, peas, turnips, and beans. Eragon and Roran stored it all in the barn. The following days were spent pickling, salting, shelling, and preparing the food for winter. A week later, a vicious blizzard blew out of the mountains and settled over the valley. Snow was all over the place.
Garrow: I’m afraid the traders may not come this year, due to the weather lately. We’ll give them a chance and wait before going to into town. But if they don’t show up soon, we will have to buy spare supplies from the villagers.
A week later, the traders did not come. So Eragon, Garrow, and Roran decided to go to Carvahall to buy some goods.
5.Unknown Value
CARVAHALL-AFTERNOON
As they arrived…
Garrow: Get yourselves some treats. Roran, do whatever you want, but get to Horst’s house on time for dinner. Eragon, come with me. We’re going to try and sell that stone you found.
Roran left and Eragon went with Garrow. There were sells everywhere, selling food, silverware, and weapons. When they saw Merlock, a merchant, Eragon and Garrow rushed over to him.
Merlock: Welcome. What would you like to buy?
Garrow: We aren’t here to buy. But we do have something to sell.
Garrow comes closer to Merlock. He put his mouth to one of his ears.
Garrow (whispering): We need to discuss this in a more private place.
They all go inside Merlock’s tent. Eragon pulled out the blue stone. Merlock examined, weighed, and measured it.
Merlock: Do any of you know how much this is worth?
Eragon & Garrow: No.
Merlock: Well, neither do I. The white veins are the same material as the blue that surrounds them, only a different color. It’s harder than a rock and a diamond. It’s also hollow.
Garrow (surprised): What?
Merlock: Let me show you.
Merlock takes out a dagger and hits the stone with it. A pure tune filled the air, then faded away smoothly.
Merlock: The stone didn’t even get a scratch. Not even a hammer can harm it.
Eragon: But how much is it worth? If it can’t even be scratched, then it must be worth a fortune.
Merlock: I’m not sure. I’m sure there are people who would pay a large amount of money for it. You will have to find someone else to sell it to. By the way, why did you want to talk about this stone in private?
Eragon: Because I found it in the Spine.
There was a brief silence.
Merlock: Do you know why the other traders and I were late to getting to Carvahall?
Eragon nodded “no.”
Merlock: Our wonderings have been dogged with misfortune. Chaos seems to rule Alagaesia. Some of us died from illness, attacks, and bad luck. The Varden’s attacks on the Empire caused Galbatorix to send more of his forces to the borders. Urgal brutes have been migrating southeast, toward the Hadarac Desert. No one knows why and it wouldn’t concern us, except that they’re passing through populated areas. They’ve been spotted on roads and near cities. Worst of all the reports is that a Shade is said to roam these lands.
Eragon: Why haven’t we heard of this?
Merlock: Because it was first heard of a few months ago. Villagers have moved since the Urgals were taking their land.
Garrow: Nonsense. The only Urgal around here has his horns mounted in Morn’s tavern.
Merlock: Possibly, but this is a small village hidden in the mountains. It’s not surprising that you escaped notice. But I wouldn’t expect that to last long.
Eragon and Garrow left the tent.
Garrow: Put the stone in the wagon. After that, go and do what you want. Just be at Horst’s house in time for dinner.
Eragon: Yes, Uncle.
He put the stone in the wagon, and hides it so no one could see it. During the rest of the day, he bought some candy and ate some of it. When the sun had fallen, he went back to the wagon. He saw Roran talking with Katrina. They kissed as Roran was about to leave. Roran came to the wagon. A few minutes later, Garrow came back. They got into the wagon and road to Horst’s house.
6.Rebirth
GARROW’S HOUSE-NIGHT
Upon returning from Horst’s house, Eragon went to his room, took a wooden mallet and lightly tapped the stone. It did not crack. He then took a heavy leather hammer. A mournful peal reverberated when it struck. Then he used a small chisel and hit the stone with it. He put the tools back where they were and put the stone on a shelf. He went to sleep.
In the middle of the night, Eragon heard something moving. He woke up to see that the stone on the shelf was shaking. It fell off the shelf and landed on the floor. Garrow heard the sound and woke up.
Garrow: Eragon! What was that sound?
Eragon: Nothing! Something fell down from the shelves.
Garrow went back to sleep. Eragon looked at the stone. It began to crack. A piece of the egg broke off. An arm was sticking out. The creature came out of the egg. It was a baby dragon.
Eragon: So, this is not a stone. It was an egg.
The dragon approached him. It fell as it did.
Eragon: Look at you.
The dragon jumped at Eragon, but he dodged. Eragon approached the dragon and tried to pet it. As he touched it, there was a flash of light. Eragon went unconscious.
The next morning, Eragon woke up to see the dragon lying on his arm. He looked at his hand and saw the mark of the Dragon Riders on his palm. Garrow and Roran were still asleep. He decided to take the dragon outside into the forest so no one could see it. He tied a rope around the dragon neck and the other end to a tree.
A text says “2½ Months Later”.
Roran: I’m going into town to get the chisel repaired.
Eragon: I’ll go with you.
Roran: Why’s that?
Eragon: I also have some business to take care of in Carvahall.
Eragon and Roran walked to Carvahall.
7.Information
CARVAHALL-MORNING
As they arrived, when Roran went to Horst’s house to get the chisel repaired, Eragon went to Brom’s house. As he was about to knock on the door…
Brom: What do you want, boy?
Eragon turns to see Brom.
Eragon: I want information. While Roran was going to get a chisel repaired, I came to ask you a few questions.
Brom went to the door.
Brom: Come in. We’ll be talking for a while.
Brom opens the door. They enter, and Brom looks around and closes the door.
BROM’S HOUSE-MORNING
Brom went to the fireplace and bends down. He holds out his hands.
Brom (whispering): Brisingr (Fire).
Brom turns to Eragon.
Brom: Sit down.
They sat down.
Brom: So, what can I do for you?
Eragon: I keep hearing about the Dragon Riders. Mostly everyone seems to want them to return, but I’ve never heard tell of how they started and how they’re special, aside from their dragons.
Brom: Explaining everything would take you until next winter. I can’t explain everything.
Eragon: Then tell me what you can.
Brom took a pipe and smoked it.
Brom: The Riders spanned countless years and, at the height of their power, held sway over twice the Empire’s lands. Dragons have no beginnings, unless it lies with the creation of Alagaesia itself. And if they were to end, it will be when this world perishes, for they suffer as the land does. They, along with every other species, are important to this land. They lived here before all others, strong and proud. Their world had changed when the elves came to Alagaesia by sea. Elves are the fair folk because they are more graceful than any of the other species. They came from Alalea, which is a location only the elves know. The elves were a proud race then, and strong in magic. At first they regarded dragons as mere animals. This was a grave mistake. For as the elf killed a dragon, a great war between the dragons and the elves began. It lasted for five years, and it would have lasted longer if a young elf named Eragon had raised a baby dragon as his own.
Eragon was surprised.
Brom: Ah, I see that you have the same name as the elf that started the time of the Dragon Riders. This should make it even more interesting. No one knows why the egg Eragon found was abandoned. Some believe that its parents were killed in the war or purposely left it there. Either way, Eragon saw the value of raising a friendly dragon. He cared for it secretly and, in the custom of the ancient language, named him Bid’Daum. When his dragon grew enough, they flew all over Alagaesia together, which convinced the dragons to make peace with the elves. From that day, the Riders were established. The Dragon Riders also began to have authorities to defend the people of Alagaesia. Eventually, they took the island Vroengard as their capital and built a city which they called Doru Araeba. Before Galbatorix overthrew them, the Riders held more power than all the kings in Alagaesia.
Eragon: What does “Eragon” mean?
Brom: I don’t know. I doubt anyone does except for the elves. It’s a good name to have though. You should be proud of it.
Eragon: Thank you. Where were we when the Riders were created?
Brom (laughs): We are no more native to this land than the elves. It took our ancestors another three centuries to arrive here and join the Riders.
Eragon: That’s impossible. We’ve always lived in Palancar Valley.
Brom: That might be true for a few generations, but beyond that, no. It isn’t even true to you, Eragon. Though you consider yourself part of Garrow’s family, and rightly so, your sire was not from here. Ask around and you’ll find many people who haven’t been here too long. This valley is old and hasn’t always belonged to us.
Eragon: What happened to the dwarves after the fall of the Riders?
Brom: No one really knows. They fought with the Riders through the first few battles, but when it became clear that Galbatorix was going to win, they sealed the entrances to their cities and hid underground. They haven’t been seen since then.
Eragon: And what of the Dragons? Not all of them could have been killed?
Brom: That is the greatest mystery. How many dragons have survived Galbatorix’s bloody slaughter? He spared those who agreed to serve him, but only the twisted dragons of the Forsworn would serve Galbatorix. If any dragons other than Shruikan are still alive, they have hidden themselves so they wouldn’t be found.
Eragon: Were the Urgals here before the elves came?
Brom: No, they followed the elves across the sea, like ticks seeking blood. They were one of the reasons the Riders became valued for their battle prowess and ability to keep peace.
Eragon: How big were the dragons?
Brom: Larger than a house. Even the small ones had wingspans over a hundred feet; they never stopped growing. Some of the ancient ones, before the Empire killed them, could have passed for large hills.
Eragon: When did they mature?
Brom: They can’t breath fire until they were around five or six months old. The older a dragon is, the longer it can breath fire. Some of them could keep it up for minutes.
Eragon: I heard that their scales shone like gems.
Brom: You heard right. They came in every color and shade. It was said that a group of them looked like a living rainbow. But who told you this?
Eragon (lying): A trader.
Brom (suddenly alert): What was his name?
Eragon: I don’t know. I heard one talking about the Riders, but I didn’t find out his name.
Brom: I wish you had.
Eragon: He also said a Rider could her his dragon’s thoughts.
Brom: He was wrong. It isn’t in any of the stories, and I know them all. Did he say anything else?
Eragon: No. Did dragons live very long?
Brom: Yes, a dragon will live for quite a while, forever, in fact, as long as it isn’t killed and its Rider doesn’t die.
Eragon: How does anyone know that? If a dragon dies when their Riders do, they could only live to be sixty to ninety years. You said during your…narration that Riders live for hundreds of years, but that’s impossible.
Brom: What is possible is subjective. Some would say that you cannot travel through the Spine and live, yet you do. It’s a matter of perspective. You must be very wise to know so much at such a young age. (laughs) Don’t be angry; you can’t expect to know such things. You forget that the dragons were magical--they affected everything around them in strange ways. The Riders were closest to them and experienced this the most. The most common side effect was an extended life. Our king has lived long enough to make to make that apparent, but most people attribute it to his own magical abilities. All the Riders were stronger of body, keener of mind, and truer of sight than normal men. Along with this, a human would slowly acquire pointed ears, though they were never as prominent as an elf’s.
Eragon: Were dragons that smart?
Brom: Didn’t you pay attention to what I said earlier! How could the elves form agreements and peace treaties with dumb brutes? They were as intelligent as you and I.
Eragon: But they were animals.
Brom: They were no more animals than we are. For some reason people praise everything the Rider’s did, yet ignore the dragons, assuming that they were nothing more than an exotic means to get from one town to another. . They weren’t. The Riders great deeds were only possible because of the dragons. How many men would draw their swords if they knew a giant fire-breathing lizard—one with more natural cunning and wisdom than even a king would hope for—would soon be there to stop the violence? Huh?
Brom blew out of his pipe.
Eragon: Did you ever see one?
Brom: Nay, it was long before my time.
Eragon: I’ve been trying to recall the name of a certain dragon, but it keeps eluding me. I think I heard it when the traders were in Carvahall, but I’m not sure. Could you help me?
Brom: Jura, Hirador, and Fundor—who fought the giant sea snake, Galzra, Briam, Ohen the Strong, Gretiem, Beroan, Roslarb…
He named many different dragons.
Brom: …and Saphira. Was it any of those?
Eragon: No. Well, Roran’s probably finished with Horst. I should get back.
Brom: What, is that it? I expected us to keep talking until he came to get you. No queries about dragon battle tactics or requests for descriptions of breathtaking aerial combat? Are we done?
Eragon: For now. I learned what I wanted to and more.
Brom: Very well.
Eragon exits the house. Brom comes to the door.
Brom: Goodbye. Take care. And don’t forget, if you remember who that trader was, tell me.
Eragon: I will.
Brom closes the door. Eragon and Roran exited Carvahall. As they walked back home…
8.Roran’s Departure
Roran: There was a stranger at Horst’s today.
Eragon: Who was it?
Roran: Dempton. He came here to have Horst forge him some sockets.
Eragon: Doesn’t Therinsford have its own smith?
Roran: Yes, but he isn’t skilled enough. He needs the sockets for his mill. He’s expanding it and offered me a job. If I accept, I’ll leave with him when he picks up the sockets.
Eragon: Are you going to tell Garrow?
Roran: Yes.
Eragon: Why would you want to take the job?
Roran: I want to earn enough money so I can marry.
Eragon: Marriage? Oooooh, you want to marry Katrina, right?
Roran: Yes. I’ll ask for her hand once I’m able to raise a house.
Eragon: You think that Garrow and I will be able to take care of the farm all by ourselves? There is much to do at the farm.
Roran: I’m sure you two could do without me.
GARROW’S HOUSE-AFTERNOON
Eragon and Roran made it home.
Eragon: Excuse me, Roran, I need to take care of something.
Roran: All right.
Roran goes back into the house while Eragon goes into the forest.
FOREST-AFTERNOON
Eragon went to the tree that he tied the dragon to. He gave the dragon some meat and it ate it.
Eragon: You need a name.
Eragon gave the dragon a list of all the dragon names that Brom told him. It refused them all.
Eragon: What? None of them? Oh! So you’re a she! How about I call you…Saphira?
The dragon nodded “yes.”
GARROW’S HOUSE-NIGHT
Eragon, Roran, and Garrow are sitting at the table eating dinner.
Roran (to Garrow): Father, I was offered a job at Therinsford’s mill, which I plan to take.
Garrow: Why?
The screen turns black as Roran explained his reasons.
Garrow: I see. Well, when will you leave?
Roran: When Dempton returns to get the sockets for the mill, which is two weeks away, I’ll be leaving.
Garrow: Good. That’ll give us time to prepare. It’ll be different to have the house to ourselves. But if nothing goes amiss, it shouldn’t be for too long. Eragon, did you know of this?
Eragon: Not until today.
Garrow: It’s life natural course. All will be fine; time will settle everything.
During the two weeks, they prepared for Roran’s leaving, did more farming, and Eragon feeds Saphira in secret.
After two weeks…
Garrow: Take these.
Roran doesn’t accept them.
Garrow: I’ve been saving them for you.
Roran: You’re blessing is all I need.
Roran and Garrow embrace.
Garrow: Take care of yourself, Roran.
CARVAHALL-MORNING
Eragon and Roran walk into Carvahall. Roran goes to Katrina and tells her of his plans. After talking with her, Roran comes to Eragon.
Roran: Be strong, brother. You work on that aim.
Eragon and Roran embrace.
Roran: You may make a hunter yet.
9.Strangers in Carvahall
Roran leaves with Dempton to work with him. Roran looks back towards Eragon as he left. Just then, Horst came up behind Eragon.
Horst: Seeing Roran off, are we?
Eragon turns to him.
Horst: Do you remember the fight you had with Sloan?
Eragon: Yes. What about it? If it’s about the payment, I haven’t forgotten. I just didn’t have the time for it. I’ve been busy.
Horst: Don’t worry about that. I wanted to know if you still have the stone.
Eragon was filled with panic to hear this, but he calmed himself down.
Eragon: Yes. Why do you ask?
Horst: Get rid of it. There are two strangers in this town looking for it. They are dressed in black and carrying swords. Some people refuse to tell of its whereabouts, but there are a few people who would talk. You should hurry home. And don’t come back until further notice. I’ll make sure they don’t come to your farm.
Eragon: All right. Thank you.
Eragon runs away until Horst couldn’t see him. He went to several houses to find the strangers. When he came to Sloan’s house, he heard voices. It was Sloan and the strangers.
Stranger #1: When did this happen?
Sloan: About three months ago.
Stranger #2: Are you sure? We would hate to think you had made a mistake. It would be very…unpleasant.
Sloan (a little shaken): Yes, I’m sure. He had it then. I’m not lying. Plenty of people know about it. Go ask them.
Stranger #1: They have been…rather uncooperative. Your information has been helpful.
Eragon came to one of the windows to get a closer look. He saw two creatures in black cloaks with beaks and swords around their waists. He looks away from the window. Just then, there was a hiss. He turns to see the strangers in an alley. He tried to run away, but seeing the strangers made him freeze in place.
Voice: Eragon!
Eragon jolted as he heard his name. The voice came from Brom.
Brom: Eragon!
Brom came running, staff in hand. Brom grabbed Eragon by the arm and dragged him away. Eragon looks at the alley to see that the strangers were gone.
Brom: You’d best get on home. Don’t come back until they’ve gone. I’ll accompany you so that those creatures won’t harm you.
Eragon and Brom exit Carvahall, making sure they weren’t being followed.
Eragon: Why were you looking for me?
Brom: I wanted to know if you found out that trader’s name yet.
Eragon: I’m sorry, but I haven’t yet.
Brom: Well, if you find out, tell me.
As soon as they were out of sight…
Brom: Hasten home. It would not be a good idea to tarry here.
Brom held out his hand, they shake hands. When Eragon tried to let go, his mitt got caught on Brom’s hand. He pulled it off. It fell to the ground. Brom picked it up.
Brom: Clumsy of me.
He hands it back to Eragon. Eragon puts it back on his hand. Brom noticed the mark on Eragon’s hand.
10.Destroyed Farm
Eragon rushes through the forest to get home. When he came into a clearing, Saphira, who was now a large dragon, grabs Eragon.
Saphira: Eragon, it’s you they want!
Eragon climbs onto Saphira to get on her back. He tried to hold on, but lost his grip due to Saphira’s flying speed. Saphira grabs him as he falls.
Saphira: You’re ridiculous! Hold on!
Eragon looks down to see that he’s high above the ground.
Eragon: Where are you taking me!? I have to warn my uncle!
Saphira: It’s too late! There’s nothing you can do!
Eragon tries to get back up to her back, but slips.
Eragon: I’m slipping!
Saphira turns to him and roars.
Eragon lets go and grabs onto her tail.
Eragon: Put me down, now!
They approach Garrow’s house.
GARROW’S HOUSE RUINS-AFTERNOON
Saphira: You’re giving me no choice!
Eragon lets go of Saphira’s tail and lands in a pile of hay. He gets out of the hay. He looks around to see his home in ruins. All the animals in the barn were killed.
Eragon: Oh, no.
He runs to the house.
Eragon (yells): UNCLE!
He looks through the broken pieces of wood. He eventually finds Garrow. Saphira lands on the ground. Parts of Garrow’s body were burned, and his clothes were torn, but he was not dead.
Eragon (turns to Saphira): He’s alive.
Just then, Eragon’s vision became faint. He looked at his legs to see that they were bleeding.
Eragon (to Saphira): It must have happened when I was riding you. Your scales are sharp.
Eragon picks Garrow up and brings him to Saphira.
Eragon (thoughts): Can you carry Garrow and I?
Saphira: Yes.
Eragon (thoughts): I think it’d be best if you use your feet. The scales on your body could hurt him.
Saphira: All right.
Saphira gently grabs Garrow with one of her front legs and Eragon got on her back.
Eragon (thoughts): We have to get him to Gertrude. She’s the town healer. I’ll go into town while you stay behind. The people will go into a panic once they see you.
Saphira: Understood.
They flew off. As they flew, the pain in Eragon’s legs began to get worse, and his vision became faint. He fell off of Saphira, falling to the ground below. As he fell, Saphira is flying at him as he closed his eyes, becoming unconscious.
11.Horst’s House
DREAM
Eragon is standing in darkness. He sees different images: 1.Group of people on horses approach a river, 2.A strange ship was waiting for them, shining under a bright moon, 3.People boarding the vessel: two of them, walked on the ship arm in arm. They stood on the deck and faced the shore. 4.A man stood alone on a pebble beach, the only one who had not boarded the ship. He threw back his head and let out a long, arching cry. 5.The ship floated into the air, without the help of oars, out into the flat, empty land. 6.Two dragons in the sky.
GERTRUDE’S HUT-MORNING
Eragon woke up to find himself naked and his legs were bandaged. He found himself in a room with a table that had a mortar and a pestle with bowls and plants. Rows of dried herbs hung from the walls. Flames writhed inside a fireplace. Next to the fire, sat Gertrude, the town healer. There was a pair of knitting needles and a ball of wool on her lap. Eragon sat up. Gertrude turned to him.
Gertrude: Oh, you’re awake! How do you feel?
Eragon: Well enough. Where’s Uncle Garrow?
Gertrude: Over at Horst’s. There wasn’t enough room to keep both of you here. And let me tell you, it’s kept me on my toes, having to run back and forth, checking to see if the two of you were all right.
Eragon (worried): How is he?
Gertrude: Not good. He has a fever that refuses to break, and his injuries aren’t healing.
Eragon: Let me see him.
Gertrude: But you must eat first. You can’t walk with your injuries. Half the skin on your legs has been torn off. Don’t worry about Garrow. He’s a tough man.
Gertrude started to make some soup for Eragon.
Eragon: How long was I out?
Gertrude: Two days. The whole town wants to know what happened. They sent men down to your farm and found it destroyed. It was brought down…is that how Garrow was injured?
Eragon: I don’t know. I wasn’t there when it happened.
Gertrude: I see.
Gertrude finished the soup and handed the bowl to Eragon. Eragon ate the soup. After he finished it…
Eragon: May I see Garrow now?
Gertrude: All right. I guess there’s no stopping you. Get dressed.
Eragon puts on his clothes. Gertrude helped Eragon walk since he was limping.
CARVAHALL-MORNING
Eragon and Gertrude walked to Horst’s house.
HORST’S HOUSE-MORNING
They arrived at Horst’s house. It was a two-story house on a hill. Every waterspout was a snarling gargoyle. Every window was framed by carvings of serpents, harts, ravens, and knotted vines. Gertrude knocks on the door. Elain, Horst’s wife, came to the door.
Elain: Please, come in.
As they entered…
Eragon (to Gertrude): You can let go now. I can walk.
Gertrude: Are you sure?
Eragon: Yes.
Gertrude lets go of Eragon. Eragon walks up the stairs. He came to a room where its door was slightly open. He saw Garrow in bed with his eyes closed, and Katrina boiling rags by a fireplace. She placed a wet rag over Garrow’s head. She sees Eragon.
Katrina: Hello, Eragon.
Eragon: Hello. How’s my uncle?
Katrina: I’ve tried everything, but nothing works. There’s a chance that he’ll die, but there’s still a little hope. He’s strong.
Eragon sat in a corner. He began to cry, feeling guilty for what had happened to Garrow. Horst comes in.
Horst (to Eragon): Come downstairs. We need to talk.
They go into the kitchen and sat down to eat.
Horst: How do you feel?
Eragon: Terrible.
Horst: I know this isn’t the best time, but we want to know what happened.
Eragon: I don’t really remember.
Horst: Eragon, your house was brought down by someone…or something. There were also giant footprints in the snow. Please tell us.
Eragon (lying): When I left Carvahall…two days ago, there were…strangers in town that were in black and carrying swords. When you told me about them, I hurried home. Nothing happened that night. The next morning I finished my chores and took a walk in the forest. Then I heard an explosion. I went back home and found it in ruins. All the farm animals were killed. I looked through the house wood and found Garrow, barely alive. As for the footprints, I didn’t notice them.
Albriech: And you carried him back?
Eragon: Yes. I also found this on the way.
Eragon got into his pocket and brought out a black piece of fabric and put it on the table.
Eragon: This is the color of the strangers’ clothes that attacked my uncle.
Albriech (gets out of his seat): They can’t get away with this! With a pair of horses we could catch them and kill them.
Horst: Don’t be reckless. They could kill you without even breaking a sweat. They were able to bring down a house! (To Eragon) Did they take the stone?
Eragon: It wasn’t in the house.
Baldor: I don’t like this. Too much of this rings of wizardry. Who are those men? Are they Shades? Why did they want the stone, and how could they have destroyed the house except with dark powers? The stone may have been all they wanted, but we might see them again.
Eragon (worried): Does Roran know of this?
Horst: I’m afraid not. We tried to send him a message, but we couldn’t reach him due to the weather.
Albriech: We were about to leave before you woke up.
Horst (to Albriech and Baldor): Go on. I’ll help you two saddle the horses.
After they left, Eragon was alone at the table. Just then he heard someone calling his name in his mind. He discovered that it was Saphira.
Eragon (thoughts): Saphira?
Saphira: Yes.
Eragon (thoughts): Where are you?
Saphira shows him an image of a small clump of trees.
Saphira: I tried to contact you many times, but got no answer.
Eragon (thoughts): I was sick, but I’m better now. Why couldn’t I sense you earlier?
Saphira: I had to hunt. I was hungry. How is your uncle?
Eragon (thoughts): I don’t know. It’ll be a long time, if ever, before we can go home. I won’t be able to see you for a couple of days. You might as well make yourself comfortable.
Saphira: All right. But don’t take too long.
Elain comes back in. Eragon turns to her.
Eragon: I’m going to Gertrude’s house to get some rest.
Elain: Why don’t you stay with us? You’ll be closer to your uncle, and Gertrude can have her bed back.
Eragon: Do you have enough room?
Elain: Of course. Come with me.
Eragon followed her to an empty room.
Elain: I’ll be downstairs if you need any anything.
Elain leaves the room. When she went down the stairs, he went to Garrow’s room.
Eragon: How is he?
Gertrude: He’s weak, but the fever has gone down a little and some of his burns are feeling better. We’ll have to wait and see, but this could mean he’ll recover.
Eragon: That’s a relief.
Eragon leaves the room and he went to bed.
12.Running Away
DAWN
Eragon woke up. He felt a chill going through his body. He went to Garrow’s room. There were people crowded around Garrow. He saw Katrina next to him, crying. Garrow was in clean clothes and his hair was combed back.
Katrina (crying): I had hoped to call him father one day.
Eragon (whispers to himself): Call him Father…a right I don’t even have.
Eragon came next to Garrow’s bed. Tears went down his cheeks. One of the people led him back to his room and left him there. Eragon sat down on his bed and put his head on his hands, and wept. Elain came in, sat next to Eragon, and touched him with comforting hands.
Eragon: Why did this have to happen?
NIGHT
As everyone else was asleep, Eragon went to the closet and took a fur coat so that he could stay warm. He leaves Horst’s house without waking anybody.
CARVAHALL-NIGHT
Eragon went to Sloan’s shop to steal some meat for his journey to kill the strangers. He watched to see that no one saw him stealing food. He gets in through the window and steals some meat. After stealing some, he goes into the forest.
FOREST-DAWN
Just then, someone grabbed him by the shoulder. He turns to see Brom.
Brom (angry): Going somewhere?
Brom took out a sword and cut the meat from Eragon’s belt.
Eragon: Give them back.
Brom: Why?
Eragon (angry): It’s none of your business! Why did you follow me?
Brom: I didn’t. I was waiting for you. Now where are you going?
Eragon (lying): Nowhere.
Eragon lunged at Brom and took back the meat.
Brom: I hope you have enough meat to feed your dragon.
Eragon: What are you talking about?
Brom: I know where that mark on your hand, the gedwey ignasia, the shining palm, comes from: you have touched a dragon hatchling. I know why you came to me with those questions, and I know that once more the Riders live.
Eragon drops the meat and leather.
Eragon (thoughts): Saphira!
Saphira: Yes?
Eragon (thoughts): We’ve been discovered! I need you!
Eragon sent her a picture of where he was, and she took off.
Eragon: How did you find out?
Brom: There were clues and hints everywhere; I had only to pay attention. Anyone with the right knowledge could have done the same. Tell me, how is your dragon?
Eragon: She is fine. We weren’t at the farm when the strangers came.
Brom notices the bandages on Eragon’s legs.
Brom: Ah, your legs. Were you flying?
Eragon (thoughts): Come!
Saphira: No.
Eragon (thoughts): Why!?
Saphira: Because of the slaughter at Doru Araeba.
Eragon: What?
Brom: I’ve talked with Saphira. She’ll be watching us. Now tell me, where are you going?
Eragon: I was going to find a safe place to stay while I heal. After that, I will go find the strangers and kill them.
Brom: A mighty task for one so young. You may need my help so that you don’t hurt yourself.
Eragon: I don’t need help, but you can come.
Brom: All right. But first we must get horses.
Eragon puts his leather outfit on and the meat on his belt. Eragon and Brom buy horses for travel. Eragon bought a brown horse while Brom bought a white horse.
Eragon and Brom traveled through trails. They went into a forest and sat down to rest.
13.Zar’roc
FOREST-NIGHT
Eragon and Brom set a campfire.
Eragon: Why do you want to travel with me?
Brom: I need you alive.
Eragon: What do you mean?
Brom: You’re the first Rider to exist ever since Galbatorix took the throne. You are Alagaesia’s last hope in removing Galbatorix.
Eragon: How can you talk to Saphira?
Brom: If it’s answers you want, its answers you’ll get.
Brom blew on his pipe. Brom took a sword in a sheath that was wine-red and a strange symbol on it from his horse’s belt. He brought the hilt of the sword closer to Eragon. Eragon pulls out the sword and holds it up. The blade was red, had a ruby at the end of the handle, the handle wrapped with wire, and the pommel was golden. It also had some kind of symbol on it, the same as on the sheath. Eragon swings the blade around a few times.
Eragon: This is a good sword.
Brom: It was once a Rider’s blade. When a Rider finishes his training, the elves would present him or her with a sword. Their swords always stay sharp, will never rust, and cannot be broken by any means. The blade’s color is the same as the dragon’s scales, but this can be an exception. The blade is called Zar’roc. I don’t know what it’s name means though.
Eragon puts the sword back into its sheath.
Eragon: Where’d you get it?
Brom: It doesn’t matter, but it took me a lot of dangerous adventures to obtain it. Consider it a gift. Trust me, you’ll need it.
Eragon puts the sword on his belt.
Eragon: Thank you.
Eragon reveals his hand to Brom.
Eragon: By the way, what is this symbol?
Brom: That is a Rider’s personal crest. It called the gedwey insignia, or the sliver palm.
Saphira landed on the ground next to Eragon. Eragon showed her Zar’roc. The sword amazed her.
Brom: Dragons will constantly amaze you. Even though Riders worked with dragons for centuries, they still couldn’t completely understand their abilities. There is much you don’t know.
Eragon: That may be, but I can learn. I want to know who the strangers are. Do you know who they are?
Brom: They are called the Ra’zac. They have been in Alagaesia ever since Galbatorix’s rule began. They aren’t human. When I saw one, it had a beak and eyes as large as a fist. The rest of the body is just twisted. They use cloaks to hide their appearance. They are stronger than men and can jump real high, but can’t use magic. They are afraid of sunlight. They are the king’s personal dragon hunters. Whenever Galbatorix hears there is a dragon in this land, he sends the Ra’zac to investigate.
Eragon: How could he know there’s a dragon if no one hasn’t seen her?
Brom: I don’t know…The Ra’zac had a source of information outside of this valley, one who is probably dead by now…
Eragon: What happened to your head? It looks like you were hit by a rock.
Brom: No. I was sneaking on the Ra’zac, trying to learn of their intentions, but they knew of my presence and caught me off guard. I drived them away, but they managed to hit me in the head before they ran off. It knocked me unconsciousness, and I didn’t wake up until the next day. I tried to warn your uncle of the danger, but I was too late. They had already reached the farm. That’s when you ran into me while on your way to the farm.
Eragon: When you saw the gedwey ignasia, why didn’t you tell me who the Ra’zac were? I would have warned Garrow, and we would have fled.
Brom: I didn’t know what to do at the time. I thought that I could keep the Ra’zac away from you and confront you about Saphira. But they outsmarted me.
Eragon (angry): Who are you? How come a mere village storyteller happens to have a Rider’s sword? How do you know everything that’s happening out there?
Brom: Because I travel.
Eragon (angry): My uncle is because of this. Dead! I’ve trusted you this far because Saphira respects you, but no more! You’re not the person I’ve known in Carvahall for all of these years. Explain yourself!
Brom: Because most of my life has been spent outside Palancar Valley. I have played many roles to different people—I’ve a complicated past. I came here to escape it. So no, I’m not the man you think I am.
Eragon: Then who are you?
Brom: I am one who is here to help you. I won’t answer your question fully. Now is not the time to tell you who I am.
Eragon: I’m going to sleep.
Eragon went to Saphira and laid next her and put a blanket over him.
MORNING
Eragon wakes up to see Brom making breakfast.
Brom: Good morning.
Eragon comes next to Brom and eats his breakfast. When they finished, Eragon spreads the leather he had stolen on the ground.
Brom: What are you doing?
Eragon: I’m going to make a saddle for Saphira.
Brom: Well, dragons used two different settles. One was hard and molded like a horse’s saddle, but those require time and tools to make, which we don’t have. The other was thin and padded, nothing more than extra layer between the Rider and dragon. They were used for speed and flexibility, but aren’t as comfortable as the other saddle.
Eragon: Can we make one?
Brom: Yes. But I need you to pay attention; you’ll have to one time make one on your own.
Eragon and Brom began to make a saddle using Eragon’s leather. When they finished the saddle, it was late afternoon, Brom tried to strap it on Saphira, and then took it off with a satisfied look.
Eragon: We did a good job.
Brom: One tries his best. It should serve you well.
Saphira: Aren’t you going to try it out?
Eragon (thoughts): Maybe tomorrow. It’s late now.
MORNING
Eragon and Brom continue to travel through the forest on horseback with Saphira traveling by flight.
NIGHT
They stopped for the night for when they were near Therinsford.
Eragon: Who was Zar’roc’s user before you?
Brom: A mighty warrior who was feared by many because of his great power.
Eragon: What was his name?
Brom: I’ll not say. I don’t want to keep you ignorant, but certain knowledge would only prove dangerous and distracting for you right now. There isn’t any reason for me to tell you at this time. I only wish to protect you from those who want to use you for evil.
Eragon goes up to Saphira to go sleep beside her. Brom suddenly threw a stick to Eragon. Eragon grabs it.
Brom: Defend yourself!
Brom was also holding a stick. Eragon and Brom have a sword fight using the sticks. Brom beats Eragon with ease.
After training for a few hours of sparing, they went to sleep. Eragon had bruises all over him, while Brom didn’t have any.
MORNING
The next morning, Eragon wakes up to see Brom making breakfast.
Brom: How do you feel?
Eragon grunted and ate his breakfast.
Eragon and Brom traveled to Therinsford.
THERINSFORD-MORNING
Eragon (thought): Saphira, stay here and hide behind the trees so no one will notice you.
Saphira: Very well. But be careful, the king’s guards could be anywhere.
Brom: Go to the far side of here and wait there.
Eragon: Why?
But Brom had already slipped away. Eragon takes their two horses to the side of the road. Brom returned shortly and they went behind some trees.
Brom: The Ra’zac were here. They stopped here to pick up horses not too long ago. I was able to find a man who would tell me of their presence. They gallop out of there like demons fleeing from a holy man.
Eragon: Wow. They left quite an impression, huh?
Brom: Yes. Now, take everything from your pack and put it into the saddlebags, and tie the pack on top.
Eragon puts his supplies into the saddlebags and gets on his horse.
Eragon: Will this hurt my legs any like it did with Saphira?
Brom: How does it feel?
Eragon: Not too bad, but I think any hard riding will open my legs up again.
Brom: We’ll take it easy.
They ride slowly towards Utgard.
14.Ristvak’baen
UTGARD-AFTERNOON
There were dark clouds all around the base.
Eragon: What is this place?
Brom: Utgard, it was once an outpost used by the Riders before Galbatorix killed Vrael. It lasted ever since it’s founding. This area became tainted after his death. Edoc’sil—Unconquerable—was the name of this bastion. Now it is called the Ristvak’baen—the “Place of Sorrow”—since the leader of the Riders was killed here.
Eragon: Such a sad place.
Brom: Yes. We’ll wait until tomorrow to make the descent. It’ll take most of the day, so let’s rest here for the night.
Eragon: How far across is the plain?
Brom: Two or three days. Aside from the nomad tribes that roam this section of the planes, it’s almost as uninhabited as the Haradac Desert. So there aren’t very many villagers. However, it’s more heavily populated to the south.
Saphira lands on the ground.
Eragon (thoughts): How do the plains look?
Saphira: Dull. There’s nothing but animals in every direction.
NIGHT
After dinner…
Brom: Catch!
He throws a stick at Eragon and he grabs it.
Eragon (complaining): Not again.
They spared for ¾ of a minute. Brom gave Eragon a lot of bruises.
MORNING
Eragon and Brom traveled through the plains.
After two days of travel…
Brom: We need to reach Yazuac today or we’re in trouble.
Eragon: Should Saphira hide once we reach there?
Brom: See that bend in the river? Have her wait there. It’s far enough from Yazuac so no one should find her. We’ll go to town, get what we need, and meet her here.
The two ride to Yazauc.
15.Yazuac Ruins
YAZAUC RUINS-MORNING
Once they reached Yazauc, all they saw was burnt down buildings. Some of them had forced holes in them and windows were broken. Eragon looked in horror as he saw that there were bodies all over the place. Some were beheaded, arms or legs cut off, or struck through. Many had arrows, swords, or spears embedded in them. Blood was all over their clothing. He was then filled with great horror and sadness as he saw a dead baby with a spear impaling through its stomach. A crow came down to feast on the dead baby.
Eragon: Oh no you don’t!
Eragon gets out his bow and shoots an arrow at the crow, killing it. It falls to the ground, dead. Brom comes next to Eragon.
Eragon (crying): Who…Who could have done this?
Brom: Those who like to kill others. All we can do is honor and pity the victims.
Brom looks at the ground to see footprints.
Brom: The Ra’zac were here, but this wasn’t their doing. Urgals did this. About a hundred of them must have come here.
Just then, they heard a noise.
Brom: Urgals!
16.“Brisingr!”
Eragon and Brom fight the few Urgals that were in the area for ½ a minute.
Just then, the Urgals knock out Brom and he falls to the ground. The Urgals surround Eragon. Eragon used his bow to shoot an arrow. Before he shoots…
Eragon (cries out): Brisingr! (Fire!)
He shot the arrow and hit the Urgal. The flame hit the other Urgals, killing them. Eragon felt weak after using the spell. He picks up Brom and puts Brom on his horse. Eragon gets on his horse and they all ride away. They come to Saphira.
Eragon (thoughts): We have to run away! There are Urgals in Yazuac! They slaughtered everyone there!
Saphira jumped into the sky to fly and they fled.
NIGHT
As they ate dinner next to the campfire…
Eragon: Brom! Your arm!
Brom looks at his left arm.
Eragon: It must have happened when the Urgals attacked us.
Eragon went to his horse and got some bandages. He wrapped some around Brom’s wound.
Eragon: You can’t ride horseback with that arm. You’ll need to ride Saphira.
Brom: All right. By the way, how did you kill all the Urgals back in Yazuac?
Eragon: I used magic.
Brom: What word did you use to cast the spell?
Eragon: Brisingr. (Fire.)
Brom: That is a word from the Ancient Language that the people of this land used to speak. It was forgotten for a long time, until the elves came. It has a name for everything, if it can be found.
Eragon: But what does that have to do with magic?
Brom: It is the basis for all power. The language describes the true nature of things. For example, brinsingr means “fire.” If you are strong enough, you can use it to direct fire to do whatever you will. That was what happened back at Yazauc.
Eragon: Why was the fire blue instead of red like it should be?
Brom: The color of magic depends on the color of the Rider’s dragon’s scales.
Eragon: So you’re able to use magic too?
Brom: I can at some degree. But my magic is not as powerful as a Rider’s, and I’m no longer in my youth. It gets harder to use magic when you’re older.
Eragon: How’d you learn how to use magic?
Brom: Because I was taught by a very powerful and wise sorcerer. The fact that you’ve discovered it presents a thorny problem. Every Rider could use magic. They keep it secret from others because they could use it to their advantage. If everyone knew, then they could find ways to defend against magic.
Eragon: Does that make me a sorcerer?
Brom: No. A sorcerer, like a Shade, uses spirits to accomplish his will. That also means you’re not a magician. For magicians can use magic without the help of spirits or dragons. Young Riders are put through a strict regimen used to strengthen the Rider’s body and mental control. This takes a very long time to complete. Students were presented with a series of pointless exercises to frustrate them. After a time, they would get infuriated enough to use magic.
Eragon: Does the language have a name?
Brom (laughs): Yes, but no one knows. Now lets get some sleep.
DREAM
Eragon is having a dream of Garrow and Roran.
Garrow: Eragon, let’s rebuild the farm together.
Eragon: I’m tracking your killers.
Garrow: Do I look dead to you?
Eragon (crying): I can’t help.
Garrow and Roran transform into the Ra’zac.
Ra’zac: Then die.
They hissed and leapt at Eragon.
MIDNIGHT
Eragon woke up in the middle of the night in a panic. He goes back to sleep.
MORNING
The next day, Eragon is riding on his horse and holding onto Brom’s horse while traveling horseback while Brom rides Saphira. They traveled until they reached Daret. Eragon tells Saphira to stay hidden.
17.Daret
DARET-AFTERNOON
Eragon and Brom entered the town to find that it was empty.
Eragon: Where is everyone?
Just then, they heard a noise. They turn to see that they were surrounded by wagons. A swarthy man came up to them, bow drawn. Eragon draws his bow.
Man: Stop! Throw down your weapons. You are surrounded by sixty archers. One move and you two die.
Eragon (thoughts): Saphira, stay away! If you come, they’ll shoot you out of the sky!
Man: Why have you come here?
Brom: To buy supplies. We’re on our way to visit my cousin’s house in Dras-Leona.
Man: You two are armed very heavily.
Brom: So are you. These are dangerous times.
Man: True. I don’t think you mean us ill, but we’ve had many encounters with the Urgals and bandits. We only trust people on their word. We will get you supplies if you stay here. Pay us and leave immediately.
Brom: Yes.
Man: Give us a short list of supplies and we’ll get them.
Brom gave them a list of supplies.
Brom: Sldo, if you have a spair pair of gloves that would fit my nephew (Eragon), I’d like to buy those too.
An archer ran off to get the supplies.
Trevor: The name’s Trevor. Where are you two from?
Brom: North, but we haven’t lived in any place long enough to call it home. Have Urgals forced you to be like this?
Trevor: And other fiends. Do have news from other towns? We haven’t heard from them in a while.
Eragon and Brom looked down gravely.
Eragon: We passed by Yazuac yesterday. The village was attacked by a band of Urgals. They left none alive. We meant to bury them, but Urgals attacked us.
Trevor (crying): The people there were good fighters—they were also friends of mine.
Eragon: I’m sorry.
Trevor: It’s all right.
An archer came back with the supplies and Brom gives him the money to pay for them. Eragon and Brom got back on their horses and rode off.
FIELD-SUNDOWN
Brom: Put the gloves on. They’ll hide that mark on your right hand.
Eragon puts on the gloves.
Eragon (thoughts): You can come out now.
Saphira flies into the sky above them. Saphira comes down to Eragon and grabs him with her feet.
Brom stops the horses.
Eragon: What the-
Saphira lifts Eragon to her head. He tries to break free, but couldn’t.
Saphira: Every time you leave me you get in trouble. You stick your nose into everything. How will you survive? I can’t help you when I’m miles away. I’m tired of hiding until you come to get me.
Eragon (thoughts): I understand your upset. But I’m much older than you and can take care of myself. You’re the one who needs protection.
Saphira: Do you really believe that? Tomorrow you will ride me, not that pitiful animal you call a horse. Are you a Rider or not? Don’t you care for me?
Brom: What is it?
Eragon: She wants me to ride her tomorrow.
Brom: All right. As long as you two are out of sight, it’s fine. You’ll have to learn how to ride her. With you flying, you can see any enemies or traps on the road.
Eragon (thoughts): I’ll ride you. But put me down.
Saphira: You swear?
Eragon (thoughts, in the Ancient Language): I will ride you. I promise.
She puts Eragon back on the ground.
NIGHT
Eragon and Brom had a sparing after dinner. This time, Eragon was able to break both of their sticks. Brom throws the broken sticks into the campfire.
Brom: We’re done with the sticks.
Brom goes to Eragon’s horse and takes Zar’roc from the saddle’s belt. He gives the sword to Eragon.
Brom: Now we train with swords.
Eragon: How can we train with these if we get hurt from stabbing each other?
Brom holds up his sword.
Brom: Geuloth du knifr. (Dull the knife.)
There was a red spark on Brom’s finger. He ran his fingers down the sword.
Eragon: What did you just do?
Brom: I cast a spell on my blade. As long as it’s in effect, it cannot cut anything or anyone. But it can still break bones if you hit too hard, so be careful when sparing with another.
Eragon lifts up Zar’roc.
Eragon: Geuloth du knifr. (Dull the knife.)
They started sparing. After an hour of fighting, they stopped and went to bed.
18.Dragon Flight
MORNING
Eragon wakes up and eats his breakfast. After finishing it, he got onto Saphira’s back.
Saphira: You up for this?
Eragon (thoughts): No, but I’ll try.
Brom: Eragon, there is also a spell that you should use when on Saphira. The words are “skulblakas ven.”
Eragon holds onto the handle of the saddle to hold on. They fly into the air. Eragon looked at the ground below. The sight fascinated him. He was glad to be flying.
Eragon: Fly faster!
Saphira: You want speed? Here we go!
She flies faster and higher.
Eragon (thoughts): Maybe I can try this. (out of thought) Skulblakas ven! (Dragon’s eye!)
Eragon’s eye pupils match Saphira’s and he could see far off and can zoom in.
Eragon (thoughts): Fantastic!
Eragon: You always see like this?
Saphira: That’s nothing. Watch this.
Eragon’s vision increased even more. They flew while Brom rode on horseback for the day.
NIGHT
As they were sitting down, Eragon noticed a metal flask with a leather strap. He saw the Ra’zac’s symbol on it. He picked it up. A drop of liquid touched his finger. It burned severely. Eragon rubbed his hand on the dirt until the pain went away. He picked up the metal flask again, careful not to get any liquid on him.
Eragon (to Brom): Look at what I found.
Brom takes it and puts a drop into a cap.
Eragon: Watch out, it’ll-
Brom: I know. Be careful around this stuff. If you drink it, it’ll burn you alive.
Eragon: What is it?
Brom: Oil from the petals of the Seithr plant. It’s used for preserving pearls. When specific words are spoken over the oil, along with a blood sacrifice, it can eat flesh. Anything put in it other than an organic life form is not burned. It’s also used as a weapon for assassination and torture. Injuries caused by it are slow to heal.
Eragon: The Ra’zac must have used this on Garrow when they destroyed my home. I saw that he was badly burned. It must also be the reason why Gertrude had a hard time healing him.
Brom: They may have tortured him with it.
Eragon: Why would they leave such a powerful liquid behind?
Brom: They may have dropped it while riding.
Eragon: How rare is this oil?
Brom: Like a diamond.
Eragon: Are there people who trade for it?
Brom: A few.
Eragon: Do cities along the coast keep shipping records?
Brom: Yes. If we can get them, it could tell us who bought the oil south and where it came from.
Eragon: Then the record of the Empire’s purchase will tell us where the Ra’zac are!
Brom: The coast is dotted with numerous cities where ships can land. Teirm would be the best place to start. It controls most of the trading. My friend Jeod lives there. We haven’t seen each other for years. He could probably help us. Since he’s a merchant, it’s possible that he could access to those records.
Eragon: How do we get there?
Brom: We go southeast until we reach a high pass in the Spine. Once on the other side, we can head up the coast to Teirm. My old friend Jeod lives there. It’ll take at least a day to reach the coast. You should ride on your horse until we reach Teirm. It’d be better if you were with me if we run into other travelers. An old man traveling alone may raise suspicion.
Eragon: Will we use our own names?
Brom: We won’t be able to deceive Jeod. He knows who I am, and I can trust him with your name. But to everyone else, keep your name secret. I’ll be called Neal while you be my nephew Evan.
MORNING
They traveled until they reached Teirm.
19.Teirm
TEIRM-AFTERNOON
Eragon (thoughts): Saphira, hide behind the trees and wait until we leave and are far away.
Saphira flies into the woods to hide.
Soldiers were at the front gate. They halt Eragon and Brom.
Soldier #1: Who are you two?
Brom: My name is Neal, and this is my nephew Evan.
Soldier #2: What is your business here?
Eragon: He’s visiting an old friend. I’m along to make sure he doesn’t get lost.
Soldier #1: Right. You may pass. Just don’t cause any trouble. (to the guards on the upper wall) Open the gate!
The gate opens and Eragon and Brom go in.
Eragon and Brom see houses that were grim and foreboding. Small, deep windows let in only sparse rays of light. Narrow doors were recessed into the buildings. The roofs were flat except for metal railings. All were covered with slate shingles. The houses closest to Teirm’s outer wall were no more than one story, but the buildings got progressively higher as they went in. Those next to the citadel were tallest of all, though insignificant compared to the fortress.
Eragon: This place looks ready for war.
Brom: This city has a history of being attacked a lot.
Eragon: Why are some houses higher than others?
Brom: Look at the citadel. It has an unobstructed view of Teirm. If the outer wall is breached, archers would be posted on all the roofs. Archers on the lower roofs would fire arrows at enemies that cannot be seen by them and are taken by surprise. If enemies get in, then the swordsman will be ready for battle.
Eragon: I’ve never seen a city planned like this.
Brom: It was done after Teirm was nearly destroyed.
They took their horses to a tavern and tied them to the hitching post. They go to The Green Chestnut and saw a man missing two fingers sitting at a far table. Brom leans against the bar.
Brom: Do you know where we can find a man named Jeod?
Bartender: How would I know something like that? You think I keep tack of the mangy louts of this city?
Brom: Could you be enticed to remember?
Brom puts some coins on the table.
Man: Gareth, what in blazes do you think your doing? Anyone in the city could tell them where Jeod is. What are you charging them for?
Brom put the coins back in his pouch. Eragon and Brom go to the man with two missing fingers.
Brom: Thank you. The name’s Neal, and this here is Evan.
Martin: The name’s Martin. Go ahead and sit down.
Eragon and Brom sit next to him.
Brom: You saved me some money.
Martin: Your welcome. Jeod lives on the west side of town, right next to Angela, the fortuneteller. Do you have business with him?
Brom: Yes.
Martin: Well, he won’t buy anything since he lost a ship not too long ago. Most of the business is through sea trade. Starting several months ago, someone’s been attacking our ships. It had gotten so bad that no captain will accept a merchant’s goods. They’re forced to travel by land.
Brom: Do you know who’s responsible for the attacks?
Martin: No one survives the attacks. They go out and disappear. Sailors say that it was magic.
Brom: Well, thank you for the information.
Martin: Your welcome.
Eragon and Brom go to the west side. Eragon sees Angela in a chair on her house’s porch. She was holding a frog in one hand and writing with the other. They approaches Angela.
Brom: Could you tell us which house Jeod live in?
Angela: I could.
Brom: Will you tell us?
Angela: Yes.
Angela writes faster and the frog croaked.
Angela: Of course I’ll tell you! All you have to do is ask. Your first question was whether or not I could tell you, and the second was “if” I could tell you. But you never actually put the question to me.
Brom: Which house is Jeod’s? And why are you holding a frog?
Angela: Now we’re getting somewhere. He’s on the right. This is actually a toad. I’m trying to prove that toads don’t exist.
Eragon: Then how come you’re holding one in your hand?
Angela: You don’t understand. If I prove toads don’t exist, then this would be a frog. And if I can prove there aren’t any, then toads won’t be able to do anything bad. Witches won’t be able to use any of their evil spells because there won’t be any toads around.
Brom: I would like to learn more, but we need to find Jeod.
Angela: Of course.
Eragon and Brom walk away until Angela couldn’t hear them.
Eragon: She’s crazy!
Brom: It’s possible, but you never know. She might discover something useful, so don’t criticize. Toads might really be frogs!
They go to Jeod’s house.
20.Jeod Longshanks
JEOD’S HOUSE-AFTERNOON
Brom knocks on the door. A young woman with a pale complexion and light blond hair opened the door.
Woman: Yes?
Brom: Does Jeod live here?
Woamn: Yes, he is my husband.
Brom: We need to talk to him. We traveled very far and it’s very important that we see him.
Woman: I’m sorry, but he is occupied at the moment.
Brom: Then give him a message that a friend from Gil’ead is waiting out here.
Woam: Very well.
She closed the door. After waiting awhile, a tall man in expensive clothes and wispy gray hair opened the door.
Jeod: Brom? Brom!
They embrace.
Brom: Shh! People can hear you. We don’t want them knowing our names.
Jeod: I’m sorry.
Brom: It’s good to see you.
Jeod: I thought you were dead. What happened? Why haven’t you contacted me before?
Brom: Do you have any place where we can talk in peace and so that no one else could hear?
Jeod: Yes.
CITADEL-AFTERNOON
They went to the citadel, rented a room, and went in. Jeod puts firewood into the fireplace, lights a match, and puts it onto the wood, burning it. They all sat in a chair.
Jeod (to Brom): You have some explaining to do.
Brom: Do you remember what we were doing in Gil’ead?
Jeod: Of course I do.
Brom: When we were separated, I couldn’t find you. In the midst of the turmoil I stumbled into a small room. There wasn’t anything extraordinary in it, just boxes and crates. I looked through them. Fortune smiled upon me, for I found what we had been searching for.
Hearing this shocked Jeod.
Brom: Once it was in my hands, I couldn’t wait for you. I might have been discovered, but I disguised myself as best I could. I fled the city and ran to the…
Brom glanced at Eragon.
Brom: ran to our friends. They stored it in a vault for safekeeping and to take care of anyone who received it. When my skills were needed, I had to disappear. No one could know that I was alive. So I went north and hid in Carvahall.
Eragon clenched his fist.
Jeod (a little angry): Then our friends knew that you were alive all this time?
Brom: Yes. I’m sorry that I didn’t let you know I was okay, but it was necessary.
Jeod: Carvahall is farther north, on the other side of the Spine, right? I assume then, that you are fulfilling your duty.
Brom: No, it’s not that simple. It was stolen a while ago—at least that’s what I presume, for I haven’t received word from our friends, and I suspect their messengers were waylaid—so I decided to find out what I could. Eragon happened to be traveling in the same direction. We have stayed together for a time now.
Jeod (puzzled): But if they haven’t sent any messages, how could you know that it was-
Brom: Eragon’s uncle was brutally killed by the Ra’zac. They destroyed his home and almost caught him. Eragon wants to get revenge. We need help finding them.
Jeod: I see…But why have you come here? I don’t know where the Ra’zac are, and anyone who does won’t tell you.
Brom gets out the Ra’zac’s flask and hands it to Jeod.
Brom: That’s Seithr oil—the dangerous kind. The Ra’zac were carrying it. We found it the night before we got here. They must have dropped it. We need to see Teirm’s shipping records so we can trace the Empire’s purchases of the oil. It should tell us where the Ra’zac are.
Jeod points to books on the shelves.
Jeod: Do you see those? They are all records from my business. The records you seek are in the castle, but only Brand, Risthart’s administrator of trade, is allowed to see them. They fear that other traders will falsify the results.
Brom: We can deal with that when the time comes, but we need a few days of rest before proceeding.
Jeod: Do you have another name while you’re here?
Brom: I’ll be called Neal, and he’ll be called Evan.
Jeod: Eragon. That is a unique name. Only three other people were named after the first Dragon Rider.
Brom: Eragon, could you go check on the horses for me, please?
Eragon: All right.
Eragon leaves the room and checks on the horses. He goes to the side of the citadel of where their room could be.
Eragon: Their trying to hide something from me.
Eragon closes his eyes.
Eragon: Thverr stenr un atra eka horna! (Traverse stone and let me hear!)
Eragon puts his ear to the wall.
Jeod (muffled): —and I’ve been doing that for almost eight years now.
Brom: I never expected you to become a merchant. You spent most of your time in books. What made you take up trading instead of staying a scholar?
Jeod: After Gil’ead, I didn’t have much taste for sitting down and reading. I wanted to help Ajihad, but I’m no warrior. My father was a merchant, so I did the same. But now my business is nothing more than a front to get goods into Surda.
Brom: Things have been going badly, I heard.
Jeod: Yes, none of the shipments have gotten through lately, and Tronjheim is running low on supplies. Somehow the Empire has discovered those of us who have been helping to support Tronjheim. Maybe Galbatorix hired mercenaries to harass us.
Brom: I heard from someone that you had lost a ship recently.
Jeod: It was my last one. Every man on hit was killed. The only option I have left is to send caravans to Surda or Gil’ead, which is unlikely for them to get there alive.
Brom: How many merchants have helped you?
Jeod: A good number. All of them have been killed however. I know what you’re thinking; I’ve pondered it many a night myself, but I cannot bear the thought of a traitor with that much knowledge and power. If there is one, we’re all in jeopardy. You should return to Tronjheim.
Brom: They’d tear Eragon apart. It’s the worst place he could be at right now. Can you imagine how the dwarves will react? Everyone will try to influence him, especially Islanzadi. He and Saphira won’t be safe in Tronjheim until I at least get them through tuatha du orothrim (tempering the fools wisdom).
Jeod: Still, I have a feeling that they are in need of your power and wisdom.
Brom (snorts): Wisdom. I’m just a crotchety old man.
Jeod: Many would disagree.
Brom: Let them. I’ve no need to explain myself. Ajihad will have to get along without me. What I’m doing now is much more important. But the prospect of a traitor raises troubling questions.
Jeod: I wonder why I haven’t been contacted about this.
Brom: Maybe they tried. But if there’s a traitor…I have to send word to Ajihad. Do you have a messenger you can trust?
Jeod: I think so. It depends on where he would have to go.
Brom: I’ve been isolated so long that my contacts have probably died or forgotten me. Could you send him to whoever receives your shipments?
Jeod: It’ll be risky.
Brom: How soon can he leave?
Jeod: He can go in the morning. I’ll send him to Gil’ead. It will be faster. What can he take to convince Ajihad the message comes from you?
Brom: You give him my ring. If he loses it, I won’t be very forgiving. The queen gave it to me.
Jeod: Aren’t you cheery.
Brom: We’d better go out and join Eragon. I get worried when he’s alone. That boy has an unnatural propensity for being wherever there’s trouble.
Brom and Jeod get out of their chairs. Eragon takes his ears off the wall. Brom and Eragon come to see Eragon at the door of the citadel outside.
Brom: Were the horses all right?
Eragon: Fine.
They left the castle.
STREETS-LATE AFTERNOON
As the reentered the main body of Teirm…
Brom: So you got married, and to a lovely young woman. Congratulations.
Jeod: Whether congratulations are in order is debatable right now. Helen isn’t very happy.
Brom: Why?
Jeod: A good home, happy children, food on the table, and pleasant company. The problem is that she comes from a wealthy family. If I keep suffering these losses, there won’t be enough money for her to live the way she’s used to. But never mind that. While you are in my house, I will let nothing more than an over-full stomach disturb you.
Brom: Thank you. Our travels have been long without comfort.
Jeod: Your welcome. Would you mind if we went somewhere else to eat? It might be awkward if you came in right now.
Brom: Whatever makes you feel comfortable.
Jeod: Thanks.
TAVERN-LATE AFTERNOON
They went to a large tavern that was loud, clean, and full of people. The three sat at a table, ordered what they would want, and ate. Brom and Jeod exchange stories.
After the three leave the tavern…
SUNSET
They went to the study.
STUDY-SUNSET
Eragon: Do you have any idea how long we’ll be here?
Brom: It depends on whether we can get the records and how long it will take us to find what we need. I’ll talk with Brand tomorrow and see if he’ll let us examine the records.
Eragon notices a book set with gold studs. He pulled it out of the shelf and stared at it. It was bound in black leather carved with mysterious runes. Eragon ran his fingers over the cover. The letters inside were printed with reddish glossy ink. He slips through the pages until a column of script caught his eye. Eragon shows Brom the book.
Brom: What is this? (to Jeod) Where did you get this? I haven’t seen a book like this in ages.
Jeod: Ah, the Domia abr Wyrda. (Dominance of Fate.) A man came through here a few years ago and tried to sell it. I bought it from him. He didn’t even know what it was.
Brom: This is the Dominance of Fate. Of all the books in this place, it’s the most expensive. It shows a complete history of Alagaesia. The Empire found it as a blasphemy and burned Heslant the Monk, the author of this book.
FLASHBACK
It shows a flashback of Heslant being burned alive.
STUDY-EVENING
Brom: It’s part of an elven poem that tells of the years they fought the dragons. It describes King Ceranthor, as he rides into battle.The elves love this poem and tell it regularly. At times they sing it so beautifully it seems the very rocks will cry.
After hours of talking, they decide to go to bed.
JEOD’S HOUSE-EVENING
Jeod: The butler will show you to your rooms.
The butler takes them to their rooms.
Butler: If you need anything, use the bellpull next to the bed.
The butler leaves. Eragon goes to Brom’s room.
Eragon: Can I talk to you?
Brom: Yes.
Eragon: Is it possible to conjure up an image of something that you can’t see?
Brom: It’s called scrying. It’s helpful in some situations, but it has a major drawback. You can only observe things you’ve already seen. You can scry them, but not their surroundings.
Eragon: Why not things you haven’t seen?
Brom: Because you have to know what you’re looking at. Even if someone is described to you, you still can’t scry him, her, or it. You have to know before you scry.
Eragon: But how is it done? Do you conjure up the image?
Brom: It takes more energy than projectting it onto a reflective surface like a pool of water or a mirror. Some Riders used to travel everywhere they could, trying to see as much as possible. If so, they could view events happening around Alagaesia. I will tell you words, but you mustn’t say it tonight, you need rest.
Eragon: All right.
Brom: Draumr kopa. (Dream stare.)
Eragon: Maybe after we leave, I think I’ll scry Roran. I want to see how he’s doing. (looks down) I can’t face him directly due to what I’ve done.
Brom: The Ra’zac may have heard of Roran while in Therinsford. Although I doubt their curiosity is sated. The king wants you most of all. If they can’t find you, they’ll hunt down Roran for answers.
Eragon: They might even use him as bait to get to me.
Brom: Yes. Don’t worry about him now. He knows what out there since I sent him a warning letter.
Eragon: All right then. Good night.
Brom: Good night.
They go to their beds and go to sleep.
21.Angela and Solembum
LATE MORNING
Eragon gets up to see a note on his door. It said:
Eragon,
Brom (letter writing): Jeod and I have are going to the castle and won’t be back until evening. Enjoy yourself in the city.
Brom
OUTSIDE JEOD’S HOUSE-MORNING
Eragon goes to Angela’s house.
ANGELA’S HOUSE-MORNING
Eragon looks through one of the windows to see a colorful bird with tail feathers and a powerful beak. The walls were covered with plants; vines clung to the ceiling. Eragon enters the house. Just then, Eragon saw red eyes. A cat jumped to the window from the inside. It had a lean body with powerful shoulders and oversized paws. A shaggy mane surrounded its angular face; its ears were tipped with black tufts. White fangs curved down over its jaws. Eragon touches the creature with his mind.
Cat: You don’t have to do that.
Eragon was surprised that the cat could talk.
Eragon: How can you talk? You’re just a cat.
Cat: Do I look like other cats?
Eragon: No…
Cat: I am a werecat. There aren’t very many of our kind. Surely you must have heard of us.
Eragon: I didn’t know you were real.
Werecat: Knowing is independent of being. I did not know you existed before bumbled in here and ruined my nap. Yet that doesn’t mean you weren’t real before you woke me.
Eragon: Sorry.
Werecat: I was getting up anyway.
Eragon: What’s your name?
Werecat: If you want my proper name, seek elsewhere. But you may call me Solembum.
Angela enters.
Angela: Did you talk with Solembum?
Eragon: Yes.
Angela: Most of the time Solembum doesn’t show himself to customers. You’re the third person to speak with him. The first was a woman, many years ago. The second was a blind beggar, and now you. I there anything you want or are you just looking?
Eragon: To look.
Angela: That’s not all I do. Do you want your fortune to be told?
Eragon: I don’t have any money.
Angela: Did Angela ask for money? Come.
He follows her to a small round table with a leather bag. They sat across from each other. Angela pours out smooth bones that were in the bag. Runes and symbols were the sides of each bone.
Angela: These are the knuckles of a dragon. They have true power, unlike crystal balls and other items that tell fortunes and do not lie. Only the woman accepted to have her fortune told. Selena was her name. She regretted it, too. Her fortune was painful.
Eragon (whispers to himself): Selena…
Eragon: Do you remember anything about her fortune?
Angela: I do not share other people’s fortunes.
Eragon: Cast the bones for me.
Angela grabs the bones in each hand and closes her eyes.
Anglea: Manin! Wyrda! Hugin! (Memory! Fate! Thought!)
She tossed the bones onto the table. They fell all jumbled together, gleaming in the faint light.
Angela: This is difficult to tell. It’s impossible to see. I was able to get a few answers though.
She picked up one of the bones.
Angela: I’ll start here.
The symbol of the bone was a long horizontal line with a circle resting on it.
Angela: Infinity or long life. This is the first time this has ever been someone’s fortune. It means that you will live an extraordinary long life or forever.
Angela puts the bone done away from the others and picks up three other bones.
Angela: Here the wandering path, lightning bolt, and sailing ship lie all together—a pattern I’ve never seen, only heard of. It shows that there are many choices in your future, some of which you face even now. Great battles rage around you. Countless possible futures lie ahead of you, but only one will bring you peace and happiness. There is a doom upon. Part of it lies in death that rapidly approaches. The rest lies in a great journey. Look closely at this bone. Its end lies on that of a sailing ship. If you live through the journey, you will leave Alagaesia forever. And where you go to, I do not know. This is unavoidable.
Eragon looks down.
Angela: I know it’s hard, but it must be done.
Angela picks up another bone and smiles as she looks at it. She shows it to Eragon to reveal a crescent moon.
Angela: There is a romance in your future. I don’t know if this passion will end happily, but your love is of noble birth. She is powerful, wise, and beautiful beyond compare.
Angela picks up two other bones.
Angela: Now, the tree and the hawthorn root, cross each other strongly. It appears that there will be a betrayal within your family.
Eragon: Roran wouldn’t do that!
Angela: The bones never lie.
Angela: You must not worry about the future. For now, you must concern yourself with what is happening now.
She puts the bones back into the leather bag.
Angela: What’s your name?
Eragon: Eragon.
Angela: So you’re named after the elf that started the Dragon Riders? Now I’m all the more interested in seeing how your life will unfold. Who was that ragged man that was with you yesterday?
Eragon: His name is Brom.
Just then, Solembum came next to Eragon and jumps onto the table.
Eragon: Yes?
Solembum: Here are two important things. When the time comes and you need a weapon, look under the roots of the Menoa tree. Then, when all seems lost and your power is insufficient, go to the Rock of Kuthian and speak your name to open the Vault of Souls.
Angela: This would probably be best not to tell anyone.
Before Eragon could ask Solembum what he meant, he had already run away.
Eragon: I’m afraid I must go. Thank you for reading my fortune.
Angela: You’re welcome.
Eragon leaves the house.
OUTSIDE TEIRM-AFTERNOON
Eragon goes outside Teirm and goes to Saphira. He tells her about his day.
Saphira: You should remember what the werecat said. It’s important.
Eragon (thoughts): How do you know?
Saphira: The names he used feel powerful.
Eragon (thoughts): Do you think I should tell Brom?
Saphira: It’s your choice, but think of this: he has no right to know your future. To tell him of Solembum and his words might raise questions you don’t want to answer. If you ask him what the werecat meant, he will ask you where you learned of it. Do you think you can lie to him?
Eragon (thoughts): No. Maybe I shouldn’t say anything. Still, this might be too important to hide.
JEOD’S HOUSE-NIGHT
Eragon knocks on the door. The butler opens the door.
Eragon: Is Neal back?
Butler: Yes. He’s in the study right now.
Eragon: Thank you.
Eragon enters the room to see Brom sitting next to the fire, smoking his pipe.
Eragon: How did it go?
Brom (angry): Bloody awful!
Eragon: Did you ask Brand?
Brom: It didn’t do any good. This administrator is the worst sort of bureaucrat.
Eragon: He won’t let us look at the records?
Brom (angry): No. Nothing I could do would sway him. He even refused bribes!
Eragon: So, what now?
Brom: We’re going to give Brand a nasty surprise. We will do this tomorrow.
MIDNIGHT
Eragon was in bed.
DREAM
Eragon sees a young woman, bent over by sorrow, chained in a cold, hard cell. Moonlight shined on her face from a window. A single tear rolled down her cheek.
Eragon wakes up and then goes back to sleep.
22.Shipping Records
AFTERNOON
Eragon, Brom, and Jeod get prepared for their plan.
Brom examines Jeod’s rapier.
Brom: That toad sticker is too thin for fighting. What if someone your fighting uses a broadsword or a flamberge?
Jeod: This is faster than a broadsword.
They go to the castle.
CASTLE-NIGHT
Brom knocks on the door. A small grille opened and a guard’s eyes were staring at them.
Guard: Yes?
Jeod: We need to get in.
Guard: Why?
Jeod (lying): This boy here has left something in my office. We came to retrieve it.
Guard: All right.
He closes the small grille and opens the door. They go in. Brom gives the guard a few coins.
Guard: Thank you.
Eragon, Brom, and Jeod go to the record room. They quietly closed the door and locked it. They saw shelves full od scrolls.
Jeod: Over here.
They went to a shelf with scrolls.
Jeod: These are the shipping records for the past five years.
Eragon: So what do we do now?
Jeod: Start at the top and work your way down. Look for anything that mentions Seithr oil.
He puts parchment stretched out on the floor and puts a glass of ink and a quill on it.
Jeod: So we can keep track of whatever we find.
They looked through the scrolls to find what they were looking for.
Voice: Need help?
Eragon (thoughts): Huh? Who’s there?
Solembum jumps up to the window of the room.
Eragon (thoughts): What are you doing here?
Solembum: I’m here to warn you that the guard whom you bribed has told his replacement about you and that he send soldiers to search for you.
Eragon turns to Brom and Jeod.
Eragon (thoughts): By the way, what did you mean about what you said yesterday?
He turns to see that Solembum is gone. Eragon goes to Brom and Jeod.
Eragon: The soldiers are onto us!
Brom: How do you know?
Eragon (lying): I listened in on the guard. His replacement just sent men to search for us. We have to get out of here.
Jeod: Are you sure?
Eragon: Yes! They’re on their way.
Brom grabs another scroll.
Brom: Not now. We have to finish this now!
They looked through the scrolls quickly. After looking through them all, they put them back quickly and picked up the items Jeod brought that were on the floor. They got out of the room. When they closed the door, they heard soldier’s footsteps. They went back to the door and tried to open it. The lock clicked.
Brom (grunts): It’s locked!
They left the room again to run away, only to see three soldiers.
Soldier: Hey! Get away from that door!
They came up to them.
Soldier: Why are you trying to get into the records?
Jeod: We lost our way.
Soldier (to another soldier): Check the room.
The soldier tried to open the door, but couldn’t.
Soldier: All right. I don’t know what you’re up to, but as long as the door’s locked, I guess you’re free to go. Come on.
OUTSIDE-NIGHT
The soldiers kicked them out of the castle.
Soldier: Don’t come back until morning.
The guard closes the door.
Brom: Let’s walk back to the house. We can celebrate there.
They went back to the house.
JEOD’S HOUSE-NIGHT
After they closed the door to the house…
Eragon: We did it!
Brom: Yes, but now we have to figure out if it was worth the trouble.
Jeod took a map of Alagaesia from the shelves and unrolled it on the desk. Eragon points to Uru’baen.
Eragon: This is where the Ra’zac should be.
Brom: We can’t try that place. That castle is Galbatorix’s lair.
Jeod: In the records, I found shipments of Seithr oil in every major city of the Empire. Wealthy jewelers in the cities must have ordered them.
Brom: I think we can eliminate some cities. The Ra’zac have to travel wherever the king wants, and I’m sure he keeps them busy. The only reasonable place for them to stay is at the crossroads. This crossroads has to be large enough so the Ra’zac will be inconspicuous.
Jeod: We can ignore most of the cities in the north.Teirm, Gil’ead, and Ceunon are the big ones. I know they’re not here, and I doubt that the oil has been shipped farther than up the coast to Narda—it’s too small. Ceunon is too isolated…only Gil’ead remains.
Brom: The Ra’zac might be there.
Eragon: What about the southern cities?
Jeod: There’s Uru’baen, but that’s an unlikely destination. If someone died from Seithr oil in Galbatorix’s court, it would be easy for someone to discover that the Empire had been buying large amounts of it. That still leaves many others.
Eragon: Yes, but the oil wasn’t sent to all of them. The parchment only lists Kuasta, Dras-Leona, Aroughs, and Belatona. Kuatsa wouldn’t work for them; it’s on the coast and surrounded by mountains. Aroughs is isolated, though it is a center of trade. That leaves Belatona and Dras-Leona. I think Dras-Leona is the likelier. It’s larger and better situated.
Jeod: It would be a great place for the Ra’zac to hide.
Brom: What do the records show?
Jeod looked at the parchment.
Jeod: It says three shipments of Seithr oil were sent to Dras-Leona. Each shipment was only two weeks apart, and they were transported by the same merchant. I doubt that anyone would have that much money for so much oil.
Brom: What about Gil’ead?
Jeod: It doesn’t have the same access to the rest of the Empire and they’ve only received the oil twice in recent years. Besides, there’s also Helgrind.
Brom: The Dark Gates. It’s been many years since I’ve thought of it. That would make Dras-Leona perfect for the Ra’zac. Then it is decided; that’s where we’ll go.
Jeod rolls up the map and hands it to Brom.
Jeod: You’ll need it to find your way around. I can’t go with you.
Brom takes the map.
Brom: I know. You’ve done you’re part. Be happy.
23.Departure
MORNING
Eragon, Brom, and Jeod go outside. Eragon and Brom are on their horses.
Brom: Farewell, old friend.
Jeod: Safe journey to you two.
Eragon and Brom rode off. After getting a far distance from the city…
Eragon (thoughts): You can follow us now.
Saphira flies out of the forest and follows them.
They reached Dras-Leona by nightfall.
DRAS-LEONA-NIGHT
They went to a place to stay for the night in the city.
DREAM
Eragon sees a woman in shackles. Her face was pale, and a tear came down her face.
MORNING
Eragon wakes up to see a note oh the door. It said (Brom’s voice reading the letter):
Eragon,
I will be gone until late tonight. Coins for food are under the mattress. Explore the city, enjoy yourself, but stay unnoticed!
Brom
P.S. Avoid the place. Don’t go anywhere without your bow! Keep it strung.
Eragon gets the money under the bed and goes outside.
DRAS-LEONA-MORNING
Eragon goes to a store and bought cheese and a loaf of bread.
Eragon sees a crowd and goes over to them to see what’s going on.
Eragon saw people coming up the steps to a waist-high platform.
Man: And here are a few slaves that could help any of you rich people could buy and have him work for you, if they speak in a civilized tongue.
Everyone laughs except for Eragon, who is filled with anger. He wanted to help the slaves, but there was nothing he could do. He goes to an alley and punches the wall. He watches helplessly as a man was handed over to a tall man and a little girl handed to another man.
Eragon: Those fiends!
Eragon goes to the cathedral.
24.Attack of the Ra’zac
CATHEDRAL-MORNING
He sees a sign that says (in the ancient language):
May thee who enter here understand thine impermanence and forget thine attachments to that which is beloved.
Eragon opens the door and goes in.
He sees that ceiling was very high up that it made him feel very small. Stained-glass windows depicting scenes of anger, hate, and remorse pierced the walls, white spectral beams of light washed sections of the granite pews with transparent hues, leaving the rest in shadow. Just then, he heard a noise. He looks around but sees nothing. The entrance opens to reveal two Ra’zac. They ran towards Eragon, but Eragon runs away and goes out of the cathedral. He runs through the city to get to the entrance.
Eragon (thoughts): Saphira! The Ra’zac found me! We’re all in danger! Go find Brom! Warn him and have him meet me at the entrance!
Saphira: All right. Be careful.
Eragon runs to the entrance to see Brom.
Eragon: Quickly! Get on your horse and get away as fast as we can! Take my horse. I’m going to ride Saphira!
They gallop and fly away from the city.
NIGHT
Eragon and Brom are sitting next to the campfire.
Eragon: How did they find us?
Brom: One of the palace servants warned me there were spies in black. Somehow word of us must have reached Tabor…and through him, the Ra’zac. The Ra’zac will be hunting us after dark. So stay on your guard.
Just then, they heard a rustle in the bushes. Eragon went to the bush, Zar’roc drawn.
Brom: What is it?
Eragon: Nothing. It was just a bird.
Eragon turns around and a club hits him in the head. He falls to the ground. Eragon hears Saphira roar as he goes unconscious.
CAMP-NIGHT
Eragon wakes up to see that he was tied up. Brom was behind him, tied up. He sees the Ra’zac in front of him. He tries to say a word in the ancient language, but couldn’t. He tries severasl times, but nothing happened.
Eragon: Why isn’t my magic working!?
Ra’zac #1: Ah. The drug is working. You won’t be a threat to us if you can’t use magic in this state.
Eragon hears a low growl. He turns to see Saphira in chains and a muzzle over her head. The Ra’zac takes Zar’roc from its sheath that was on Eragon’s belt.
Ra’zac: What a pretty thing for one so…insignificant. I think I’ll keep it.
He puts his head in front of Eragon’s.
Ra’zac #1: Or maybe the king will have you polish it for him so that he can use it as his own.
Ra’zac #2: You will serve our master very well, yes.
Eragon: If I do, I will kill you.
The Ra’zac laughed.
Ra’zac #1: Oh no, we are too valuable. But you…you are disposable.
Brom was groaning.
Ra’zac #2: It seems the drug on him is wearing off.
Ra’zac #1: Kill him. The king only wants the young one and his dragon.
They drag Brom to the center of the room and shoved him to his knees. Eragon tries to get free from the ropes, but they were too strong and tight. One of the Ra’zac pointed Zar’roc to Eragon’s neck.
Ra’zac #1: Don’t even think about it.
The other Ra’zac pointed a dagger at Brom’s neck. He swung back the dagger to strike. But before he could strike, an arrow protruded from his shoulder. The Ra’zac near Eragon drops to the ground to avoid another arrow. One of the Ra’zac runs away. It kicks Eragon in the side as it ran away. The other picks up the dagger and throws it Eragon. Before it struck him, Brom jumped in the front, and was struck by the dagger. Brom falls to the ground with the dagger in his right chest.
Eragon: No!
Eragon hears footsteps. Eragon goes unconscious.
25.Murtagh
NIGHT
Eragon wakes up to see a campfire, Saphira, Brom lying down in a blanket, and a cloaked man. He saw that he was untied.
Eragon (thoughts): Saphira, are you injured?
Saphira: No, but Brom is.
Eragon: How did you get out of the chains?
Saphira (looking at the man): He freed me.
Eragon turns to him.
Eragon: Who are you?
The man removes his hood.
Man: My name is Murtagh.
Eragon went to his side.
Eragon: Why did you help us?
Murtagh: You aren’t the only enemies the Ra’zac have. I was tracking them.
Eragon: You know who they are?
Murtagh: Yes. I would have helped you earlier, but your dragon wouldn’t let me near you.
Saphira growled at him.
Eragon (thoughts): Saphira! Don’t be mean! He saved our lives!
Eragon: Her name’s Saphira.
Eragon looks at Brom.
Eragon: How is he?
Murtagh: Bad. The dagger hit him in the chest. Now, let me see your wound.
Eragon takes off his shirt and Murtagh puts a hand to Eragon’s side.
Eragon: Ouch.
Murtagh pulls back his hand.
Murtagh: You have some broken ribs. At least two or more are broken. You’re lucky to not be coughing up blood.
Murtagh puts bandages around Eragon’s stomach. Eragon puts his shirt back on. He goes over to Brom. He tries to take the bandage on Brom’s wound off.
Murtagh: I wouldn’t do that. He’ll bleed to death without it. He lost a lot of blood from that attack.
Eragon ignores him and takes off the bandage. Eragon takes his right glove off. He puts his hand above Brom’s wound. Light began to come out of Eragon’s gedwey ignasia.
Eragon: Waise heill! (Be Healed!)
The light fades. Eragon is shaken. Murtagh comes next to him.
Murtagh: Did it work?
Eragon: I can heal the outside, but not the inside. It’s up to him now. I’ve done all I can.
Murtagh: I’ll make some soup.
Murtagh goes to the fire to make some soup. After fixing it, he hands a bowl of soup to Eragon. Eragon eats some of the soup.
Eragon: How long have I been out?
Murtagh: A few hours. We have to get somewhere safer. The Ra’zac will get help from the king’s soldiers. We must flee.
Eragon (thoughts): You’ll have to carry Brom.
Saphira: All right.
They traveled until they came to a cave.
CAVE-NIGHT
They go to sleep.
26.Legacy of a Rider
DAWN
Saphira: Wake up, Eragon.
Eragon tosses and turns.
Saphira: I need your help. Something is wrong!
Eragon (sleeping): Go away.
Saphira roars. Eragon wakes up startled. Saphira looks at Brom. Murtagh wakes up to see what was going on. Eragon goes over to Brom.
Eragon: Get me water and a cloth.
Murtagh brought them, and Eragoin gently bathed Brom’s faced, trying to cool him down. The sun had risen. Brom grabs Eragon.
Brom: Eragon! Bring me the wineskin!
Eragon: You shouldn’t drink wine; it’ll only make it worse.
Brom: Just bring it…
Eragon gets the wineskin and goes back to Brom.
Brom: Poor it on my right hand.
Eragon pours out the entire bottle of wineskin on his hand. After pouring it all out, the gedwey ignasia is seen on Brom’s hand.
Eragon: Dragon Rider.
Brom (dying): Not anymore. When I was young…I was chosen…chosen by the Riders to join their ranks. While they trained me, I became friends with Morzan, another Rider, before he was of the Forsworn. He betrayed us to Galbatorix…and in the fighting at Doru Araeba—Vroengard’s city—my dragon was killed. Her name…was Saphira.
Eragon: Why didn’t you tell me?
Brom (dying): There was no need. I’m old, Eragon. My life has been longer than most. I still grieve for my Saphira…and hate Galbatorix for what he tore from me. Don’t let this happen to you. Don’t! Guard Saphira with your life. If she dies, you’ll find life hardly worth living. Eragon, before I go, take my blessing.
Eragon: What?
Brom (dying): I won’t last much longer. This wound greatly weakens me. Will you take my blessing?
Eragon nodded.
Brom (dying): Then may the coming years bring you happiness.
He motioned for Eragon to put his ear to his mouth. He whispered seven words in the Ancient Language.
Brom: Use them when in great need.
Tears come out of Eragon’s eyes.
Brom: Atra esterni ono theldoin. (May good fortune rule over you.)
Brom dies. Eragon cries and Saphira roars in mourning.
TOP OF THE MOUNTAIN-MORNING
Eragon puts a large amount of rocks on Brom’s body, along with Brom’s sword and staff.
Saphira: I can’t breathe fire yet, but I can do this for Brom.
Saphira breathes on the rocks to turn it into diamond. Eragon had setted runes into the stone.
HERE LIES BROM
Who was a Dragon Rider
And like a father
To me.
May his name live on in glory.
Saphira: Now time will not ravage him.
Eragon kneels down to the diamond tomb.
Eragon: You shall be long remembered.
FIELD
Eragon and Murtagh are riding horseback while Saphira flies.
NIGHT-DREAM
Eragon saw the woman shackled to a wall. A drop of blood dripped from her hand.
27.Travel to Gil’ead
MORNING
Eragon: We need to get to Gil’ead.
Murtagh: Why? It’s a fortress that supports the Empire. Its too well guarded. They’ll capture us.
Eragon: There’s someone in trouble. She’s there.
Murtagh: How do you know?
Eragon: I had dreams about her in the dungeons. The most recent one showed blood dripping from her hand. I know that the next will be a grave if we don’t rescue her.
As Eragon went to check on Brom’s horse, Murtagh examines Zar’roc.
Eragon: What are you doing?
Murtagh looks at the sword with suspicion.
Murtagh: Where’d you get this?
Eragon: Brom gave it to me.
Murtagh: This sword was once as well known as its first owner. The last Rider to carry it was Morzan—a brutal and savage man.
Eragon looked in shock at Zar’roc.
Eragon: He never told me it was Morzan’s.
Murtagh: He never told you?
Eragon: He tended to keep many secrets.
Eragon takes back the sword and puts it back in its sheath.
Eragon: I have to sell my horse.
Murtagh: What about Brom’s?
Eragon: Brom swore to protect his horse, so I’ll do it for him.
Murtagh: All right.
They went to a small village and sold Eragon’s brown horse. The man gave him some coins.
They continued to ride until nightfall.
NIGHT
They sit next to the campfire.
Eragon: After we rescue the woman from Gil’ead, we shall head to the Varden.
Murtagh: I’ll accompany you until you get there.
Eragon: You’ll leave me once I reach the Varden? Why?
Murtagh didn’t answer.
TWO HOURS BEFORE DAWN
Eragon wakes up.
Eragon (thoughts): See anything?
Saphira: No. I smell horses nearby, but they’re not moving. They reek with an unfamiliar stench.
Eragon wakes up Murtagh.
Murtagh: What is it?
Eragon: There are horses close by.
They hear a sound. Eragon turns to see a group of Urgals. They charged at them. They fight the Urgals. Unaware of the Urgal behind him, he hits Eragon in the head with a club.
Eragon: Saphira, fly away!
Eragon falls to the ground, unconscious.
28.A Shade and an Elf
GIL’EAD-MORNING
Eragon wakes up to see that he was in a cell.
Eragon: Where am I? (gasps) I’m in prison!
He looks at the cell door. He tries to talk in the Ancient Language, but couldn’t.
Eragon: They must have drugged me.
He looks around to see a table with a plate that had bread and a bowl of soup on it. He goes over to it and eats. He takes the pint of water and looks at it to see some black stuff in it. He decides not to drink it.
Eragon (to himself): They’re trying to drug me so I can’t use magic. I can’t eat or drink until I get out of here.
Eragon: How did I get here? I must have been dragged here when I was unconscious. (gasps) Wait a minute! What happened to Saphira and Murtagh?
He walks to the cell door to look into the other cells. He did not see Saphira or Murtagh.
Eragon: They were either they killed or fled.
Just then, he heard a door open.
He looks down the end of the hall to see two soldiers holding a woman between them. He also saw another person behind him. It was Durza.
Eragon: That’s the same woman I saw in my dreams.
The soldiers took her to a cell and shackled her to the wall. Eragon also noticed that she had pointy ears.
Eragon: She’s an elf.
Durza comes by and looks at him. He had maroon eyes. He comes up to Eragon’s cell.
Durza takes a key and unlocks the door and goes in.
Durza: I’ve waited a long time to meet you. Forgive me if I stare. I knew you were young, but I excepted someone more…well more.
Eragon: Who—who’re you?
Durza: No one of consequence. My name does not matter to no one in your position. It’s you I want to know. Who are you?
Eragon: Eragon.
Durza: What about your other name?
Eragon (lying): Du Sundavar Freohr. (Death of the Shadows.)
Durza seemed a little startled.
Eragon: Why are you here?
Durza: To gloat. What use is a victory if one cannot enjoy it? I must attend to certain matters. You do well to think on whom you would serve: a Rider who betrayed his order or stays loyal to them. (to a guard) Captain!
The captain comes up to Durza.
Captain: Yes, sir?
Durza: The boy hasn’t been drinking his water. Why is that?
Captain: I talked with the jailer earlier. Every bowl and plate was scraped clean.
Durza: Very well, but make sure he drinks.
Durza puts his head to the captain’s ear.
Durza (whispers): Put in some extra dose, just in case.
Durza turns to Eragon.
Durza: We will talk again tomorrow. I have an endless fascination for names. I will greatly enjoy discussing yours in much greater detail.
Durza leaves the cell.
Durza: Bring the girl!
Durza and the soldiers leave the hall with Arya. Eragon watches them leave. He sits on the bed and looks out the window.
29.Escape
NIGHT
Eragon wakes up. He goes to the cell door.
Eragon (Ancient Language): Unlock.
The door clicks. Eragon opens the door, watching before he does.
Saphira: Eragon!
Eragon (thoughts): Saphira! I’m so glad you’re safe. How’s Murtagh?
Saphira: He’s coming to rescue you.
Eragon hears footsteps. Six soldiers came through the door down the hallway. They charge at him. When they neared him, they fall to the ground, dead. Murtagh stood behind them.
Eragon: Murtagh!
One of the soldiers groan, showing that he’s alive. Murtagh raises his sword to strike.
Eragon: Wait!
Eragon kneels down to the soldier and lifts him up.
Eragon: What cell did you keep the elf in? And where was my sword put? If you don’t answer, you’ll find yourself in misery and torment.
Soldier: She’s in the last cell on the left. I don’t know about your sword, but it’s probably in the guardroom upstairs. All the weapons are there.
Eragon: Slytha. (Sleep.)
The guard goes to sleep.
Eragon and Murtagh go to the cell on the left at the end of the hall. They unlock the door to find the elf, unconscious.
Murtagh: She’s beautiful.
Eragon: But hurt.
Murtagh picks Arya up and puts her on his shoulder. They go to a room with broad tables and put Arya on one of them. Shields lined the walls and the ceiling was trussed with curved beams.
Murtagh: Can you talk to Saphira for me?
Eragon: Yes.
Murtagh: Tell her to wait another five minutes.
Eragon: Whatever you’re planning to do, we don’t have much time.
Murtagh: Just tell her, and stay out of sight.
He runs off.
Eragon (thoughts): Saphira, wait for another five minutes.
Saphira: I will.
Just then, Eragon heard clinking armor coming up the stairs. He grabs Arya and hides under the tables. The soldiers look around and run back down the stairs. Eragon gets out from under the table. Eragon takes whatever food he could find in the room. He eats a loaf of bread. Murtagh comes back up the stairs with Zar’roc, a bow, and another sword.
Murtagh: Here’s your sword.
He hands Zar’roc to Eragon.
Murtagh: These two must be the elf’s weapons. They are crafted in a way I haven’t seen before.
Eragon: We have to get out of here.
Murtagh: Right.
Eragon: There’s also a Shade in this fortress.
Murtagh: A Shade!? In so, then tell Saphira to come now.
Eragon (thoughts): Saphira, come here immediately!
Saphira: All right.
Murtagh: We should lock this door.
Murtagh locks the door.
Murtagh: Now no one will be able to get in.
Voice: It’s far too late for that.
Eragon and Murtagh spun around to see Durza at the end of the room. In his hand was a pale sword with a thin scratch on the blade.
Durza: So my young Rider, do you wish to test yourself against me?
Murtagh (to Eragon): I’ll take care of him.
Murtagh draws his sword.
Eragon: No. It’s me he wants. I’ll stall him while you find a way out for us.
Eragon draws Zar’roc.
Durza: Do you really think you can defeat me, Du Sunvadar Freohr? (Death of the Shadows?) What a pitiful name. I expected something more subtle from you, but I suppose that’s all you’re capable of.
Eragon looks up when he hears screaming and the sound of clashing metal above the ceiling. Durza charges at Eragon as he looks up. Eragon was barely able to see the attack and block it. They have a sword fight until Durza knocks Zar’roc out pf Eragon’s hand. Eragon falls to the ground.
Durza: You’re weak. If all the Riders were like this, they would only be able to control the Empire by sheer numbers.
Eragon: You forgot one thing.
Durza: What’s that?
A piece of the ceiling fell to the ground.
Eragon: The dragons!
Eragon runs away from Durza to get Zar’roc. Angry, Durza runs toward Eragon. Eragon blocks the attack, but Zar’roc is knocked out of his hand. Durza raises his sword to strike, but before he could land a hit, an arrow hit his head. Durza drops his sword and disappears. Eragon turns to see that Murtagh was pointing his bow at Durza.
Eragon: You killed him!
Just then, soldiers busted the door down.
Soldier: There they are! Get them!
They charge at Eragon and Murtagh. Just then, Saphira’s head came out of the hole in the ceiling and she roars, scaring them. She stomps on the roof until the ceiling broke, bringing her to the floor. She roars at the soldiers, and they ran away.
Murtagh: We need to get out of here!
Murtagh goes to and puts Arya on his shoulder.
Eragon: Saphira, can you carry three?
Saphira: Not for very long.
They all get on Saphira. Saphira takes off. As they did, archers shot at them from the roof.
Soldier: FIRE!
Eragon: Fly higher!
Saphira: I can’t! The weight, its too much!
The screen fades to black.
FOREST-NIGHT
Eragon is seen tending to Arya’s wounds, which she suffered when she was held prisoner, while Murtagh is by the campfire fixing dinner. Saphira lay down next to Eragon. After healing her wounds, Eragon sits next to Murtagh.
Eragon: What happened after I was captured? How did I end up in Gil’ead?
Murtagh: The Urgals and the Shade are working for the Empire. We saw the Urgals give you to the Shade and some soldiers. They took you to Gil’ead.
Eragon: This will mean war! When the people of this land find out about this, they’ll join the Varden.
Murtagh: But with the Urgals, he can prevent most of them from doing so.
Eragon: I wish we knew where the Varden were. We have to find our way their without Dromnad.
Murtagh: I’ve heard that the Varden are somewhere to the south of the Haradac Desert.
Eragon: How long will it take to get across the desert?
Murtagh: Three or four days on horseback. On Saphira, we could fly for two days. We can’t try flying cause we can’t leave the horses behind and Saphira isn’t strong enough to carry all of us. So we’ll have to go horseback.
HARADAC DESERT-MORNING
Eragon and Murtagh cross over the Haradac Desert. Eragon and Murtagh rode on horseback while Saphira flew above them with Arya on her back. They managed to get through the desert in three days.
30.Mind Communication
BEOR MOUNTAINS-NIGHT
While Murtagh was asleep and Saphira was keeping watch, Eragon goes over to Arya. He tries to talk to her with his thoughts.
ARYA’S THOUGHTS
Arya (in the Ancient Language): What is your name?
Eragon: Eragon. And yours?
Arya: Arya. Why have you contacted me in this manner? Am I still in Gil’ead?
Eragon: No. (in the Ancient Language) I was imprisoned in Gil’ead, but I escaped and rescued you. My dragon, a friend of mine and I have traveled through the Haradac Desert to get to the Varden. We are now camping in the Beor Mountains. You’ve been unconscious during our travels.
Arya: Now I know how my wounds healed. Even so, I have not awakened, and you are worried.
Eragon: Yes.
Arya: A rare poison, Skilna Bragh, was given to me while I was held captive. I was given antidotes, but I refused to take them, since they were drugged. I’ll die within a few hours. However, I put myself in this state to slow the poison, but not for very long.
Eragon: How long can you remain like this.
Arya: A long time, but I’m afraid I haven’t that much time.
Eragon: Is there an antidote for this?
Arya: Yes. They can be found with my people or the Varden. However, my home is beyond reach on dragonback.
Eragon: What about the Varden? That’s where we’re heading, but we don’t know where they are in these mountains.
Arya: First, you must promise not to tell Galbatorix or anyone who serves him the location of the Varden and the elves and no harm to all the races of this land that are not in the Empire, as well as the tattoo on my arm.
Eragon: Vel einradhin iet ai Shor’tugal. (Upon my word as a Rider.)
Arya: It is done.
She shows him an image of how to get to the Varden.
31.Slavers
BEOR MOUNTAINS-MORNING
They traveled until they hear cries from behind. A large group of people came running, holding swords, spears, and bows. Men on horses surrounded them. The leader gets off his horse and looks at Eragon and Murtagh.
Eragon (thoughts): Saphira, we’ve got company!
Leader: Drop your weapons.
Eragon: What do you want?
Leader: Slaves do not address their masters that way, unless they want to be beaten.
Eragon looks in shock at the leader.
Leader: Throw down your weapons now!
One of the men uncovered a blanket on Murtagh’s horse to see Arya. He notices her elf ears.
Man: Torkenbrand, this one’s an elf!
The leader approaches Arya and whistles.
Torkenbrand: The Empire will pay a mountain of gold for this one!
Eragon (thoughts): Attack now! Scare them away!
Saphira lands on the ground and roars. The slaves gasp in surprise. Eragon draws Zar’roc.
Eragon: I am a Rider! Flee if you want to live!
The men run away. Torkenbrand was accidently hit in the temples as they ran away, and falls to the ground. When the men were nowhere in sight, Murtagh approaches the injured Torkenbrand and raises his sword to strike.
Eragon: No!
Murtagh slashes Torkenbrand’s head off.
Eragon (angry): Why did you kill him!?
Murtagh: I don’t see why you’re upset-
Eragon (angry): Upset! We could have just left him here and be on our way! He was defensless!
Murtagh: He was dangerous. He wouldn’t make it far without a horse. He could have been found by the Urgals and tell them our location.
Eragon: But to kill him?
Murtagh: I’m trying to protect myself. My life has been threatened ever since I was born! You don’t understand what it means to live in fear! (pointing to Torkenbrand’s head) He was a risk I removed.
Eragon: It was still the wrong thing to do. Why have you been living in fear your whole life?
Murtagh doesn’t answer.
Eragon: Let’s go.
They get on their horses and ride away.
NIGHT
Eragon and Murtagh sit next to the fire. Arya lies beside Eragon. Saphira is behind Eragon.
Saphira: Murtagh tried to do the right thing. The men who buy slaves deserve misfortune.
Eragon (thoughts): But Torkenbrand was helpless. He could have just surrendered, but Murtagh didn’t give him that chance. It wouldn’t be so bad if he was able to fight.
Saphira: Even if he fought, the result would be the same. You think it’s more honorable to die in a battle. Forgive Murtagh. If you don’t, then forget, for he meant you no harm.
Eragon: All right.
32.Urgal Followers
MORNING
Spahira: Eragon!
Eragon wakes up.
Saphira: There are Urgals following us from the Haradac Desert.
Eragon looks at them. They were small dots to his eyes.
Eragon: Skulblakas ven.
Eragon’s eyes become Saphira’s. He zooms in to see an army of Urgals coming, as well as some that twice the size of the normal ones. Eragon wakes up Murtagh and points in the direction of the Urgals far away from them.
Murtagh: They must have picked up our trail. That flag that Urgal in the front is holding a flag with the personal symbol of the Urgals. He’s a ruthless brute, given to violent fits and insanity. Those ones taller than an Urgals normal height and have bull-like horns are called Kulls. They can run for days without rest, food, and drink. We have to get to the Varden quickly, for they run faster than a horse.
33.Search for the Varden
They get on their horses and ride away. Saphira carries Arya on her back and flies behind Eragon and Murtagh. Eragon follows the route that Arya gave him to get to the Varden.
Eragon: The only safe haven from the Urgals and Kulls is the Varden.
Murtagh (angry): No! I warned you that I wouldn’t go to the Varden, but you trapped me between a hammer and an anvil!
Eragon: Murtagh, unless you wish to die, we must go to the Varden. Don’t let me go into their arms without knowing how they will react to you. Why do you not want to go to the Varden? What’s wrong with that?
They stop their horses.
Murtagh: I…I am the son of Morzan, first and last of the Forsworn.
Eragon looks at Murtagh in shock. Eragon holds Zar’roc tightly.
Eragon: You are his heir?
Murtagh: I didn’t choose this! Look!
Murtagh gets off his horse and pulls up his shirt and turns around to reveal a long scar across his back.
Murtagh: I was three years old when I got this scar. When my father was drunk one time, he threw the very sword you hold now at me. I was to take Zar’roc as my inheritance until Brom killed him and took it. Before I could die, a healer healed my wound, but the scar will stay on my body. I have no allegiance to the Empire, nor do I mean you harm!
Eragon: Brom killed…your father?
Murtagh pulls down his shirt.
Murtagh: Yes. If I meant to capture you, I would have left you in Gil’ead.
Eragon: All right. I’ll trust you for now. When we reach the Varden, I’ll tell them that you mean no harm to the Varden.
Murtagh: Fine then.
Murtagh gets back on his horse and they ride away.
FARTHEN DUR-AFTERNOON
They stop to see a waterfall.
Eragon: That’s where the Varden is.
Eragon and Murtagh ride closer to the waterfall. Just then, they hear a noise. They turn around.
Murtagh: Urgals!
There were about twenty Urgals coming down towards them.
Murtagh: We can’t stay out here!
Eragon: Jierda! (Hit!)
Half of the Urgals were thrown back and hit rocks hard on their heads, killing them.
They jump into the water and hid behind the waterfall. They swim to the surface, but Eragon couldn’t since using magic weakened him. He tumbles down to the lower floor. Before he could drown, a hand grabs Eragon and pulls him out. Another hand pulls Murtagh out.
Eragon turns to see a dwarf behind him and a bald, robed man behind Murtagh. The dwarf’s chest was stocky, and he wore a chain-mail jacket cut off at the shoulders to reveal muscular arms. There was a war ax strapped on his belt. An iron-bound oxhide cap, bearing the symbol of a hammer surrounded by twelve stars. The dwarf helps Eragon up. The man picks helps Murtagh up.
Bald Man: Come with us.
Eragon and Murtagh follow them inside. When they went in…
Bald Man: Call your dragon inside.
Eragon (thoughts): Saphira, come inside and follow us.
Bald Man: Follow me.
34.Mind Search
Eragon and Murtagh follow him while a dwarf took the horses. The tunnel ceilings and walls were made of polished white marble.
Eragon: There’s an injured-
Bald Man: Quiet! You and your friend must be tested first.
Eragon: Tested?
Bald Man: Yes. We must see if you and your friend mean us no harm.
One of the soldiers grabbed Murtagh and put a sword to his neck. A dwarf came and removed Murtagh’s weapons.
As they stopped, another bald man came.
Bald Man #1: This is my twin brother. We don’t have names, so people here refer to us as “The Twins.”
Twin #2: The test shall now begin! Step away from your dragon and approach my brother and I.
The dwarf that saved Eragon sees Arya on Saphira’s saddle.
Dwarf: It’s an elf! We must heal her quickly! Ajihad and the king will have our heads if she dies!
The bald men look at Arya in shock. They approach Arya.
Twin #1: Of course, Orik. Remove her from the dragon.
A few men and dwarves came and put Arya slowly on the floor. One man bends down and looks at her face.
Man: It’s the dragon-egg courier, Arya!
Twin #1: What?
The other bald man turns to Eragon.
Twin #2: You’ve got some explaining to do.
Eragon: She’s been poisoned by a Shade.
Everyone except for Saphira and Murtagh look at Eragon in shock.
Eragon: It’s a poison that can only be healed by a Tunivor’s Nectar potion.
Everyone begins to start talking to each other.
Man: The Skilna Bragh.
One of the bald men whispers an order to a soldier.
Soldier: Yes sir.
Some soldiers picked up Arya and took her away. The bald men turned to Eragon.
Twin #1: She will be treated to immediately. Do not worry.
Twin #2: Now where were we? Ah yes, we were about to see if you two are trustworthy.
Eragon approaches the bald men.
Twin #1: Now turn around.
Eragon turns away.
Eragon (thoughts): I want you to hide anything that has to do with Angela’s telling me my fortune, Solembum, and Murtagh.
Saphira: They will find out about Murtagh once they examine him.
Eragon (thoughts): Just do it.
Saphira: If that’s what you want.
Twin #1: Now, I want you to stay still. This will hurt, but try to relax. If you hide anything from us, we will take it by force.
Eragon: Very well.
The bald men touch Eragon’s head with their hands look through all of Eragon’s memories except for Angela’s fortune, Solembum, and Murtagh. After going through Eragon’s memories, they let go of Eragon’s head.
Orik: Well? Is he to be trusted?
Twin #1: Yes.
Twin #2: He is trustworthy.
Orik comes to Eragon to help him walk since he was weakened from the probing. The bald men turn to Murtagh.
Twin #1: Now it’s your turn.
Murtagh: No.
Twin #2: You won’t be protected here if you refuse.
Murtagh: Nothing you do or say will make me. Even threatening to kill me won’t get me to let you two probe me.
Twin #1: You don’t have a choice!
The soldiers holding onto Murtagh drag him over to them and turn him around. The bald men put their hands to his head. They search through his memories, but only saw darkness.
Orik: That’s enough!
He comes to them and pulls the bald men away from Murtagh.
Twin #1: How dare you! You questioned my leadership, opened the gates without permission, and now this! You’ve shown nothing but insolence and treachery. Do you think your king will protect you now?
Orik: the Urgals would have killed them. We don’t have any right to torture him for information. Ajihad will not allow it. Eragon is a Rider and he has brought Arya to us.
Twin #1: Would you allow him to enter unchallenged? Are you so great a fool as to put us all at risk?
Orik: Can he use magic?
Twin #2: That is-
Orik: Can he use magic!?
Twin #2: No.
Orik: Then why do you fear? He can’t escape as long as he doesn’t know magic. Ask Ajihad what he wants done.
One of the bald men looks up and closes his eyes for a moment and says something that no one could hear. He then opens his eyes and turns to the soldiers.
Twin #1: Leave now!
The soldiers leave the room. The bald men turn to Eragon and Murtagh.
Twin #1: You and your friend will stay here for the night. If your friend tries to escape, we’ll kill him.
The two bald men leave the room.
Eragon (to Orik): Thank you.
Orik: I’ll make sure some food is brought.
Orik leaves the room.
35.Murtagh’s Family
Eragon goes to Murtagh.
Eragon: Did they get anything from you?
Murtagh: Not one thing.
Eragon: How did you keep him out?
Murtagh: I’m well trained.
Eragon: I didn’t let them know who you are.
Murtagh: Thank you for that.
Eragon: By the way, why are you here?
Murtagh: What?
Eragon: If you are Morzan’s son, Galbatorix wouldn’t let you wander around Alagaesia freely. How’d you find the Ra’zac by yourself? Why is it I’ve never heard of any of the Forsworn having children? And what are you doing here?
Murtagh: Long story.
Eragon and Murtagh sit down.
Murtagh: I am the only child of the Forsworn. My parents met in a small village—I never learned where—while my father was traveling on the king’s business. Morzan showed my mother some kindness, no doubt a ploy to gain her confidence, and when he left, she accompanied him. They traveled together for a time, and she fell in love with him. Morzan was delighted to discover that not only because it gave him numerous opportunities to torment her but also because he recognized the advantage of having a servant who wouldn’t betray him. When he returned to Galbatorix, she became a tool. He had her carry his secret messages and teached her magic so that other people wouldn’t notice her and extract information from them. This happended for three years, and stopped for when she became pregnant.
Eragon: And you were the one to be born.
Murtagh: Yes.
He pauses for a moment.
Murtagh: My father was a cunning man. He knew that the pregnancy would put us in danger. So, in the dead of night, he took her away to his castle to keep her safe until I was born. He also casted spells to prevent anyone from entering the castle except for a few chosen servants. The pregnancy was kept secret from everyone in the Forsworn except for the king himself. He never revealed my existence to the others. I was born in due time and given to a wet nurse so my mother could continue to work for my father. She only had time to visit me a few times for a few months. Another three years passed, and at that time, I was given the scar on my back. I would have grown to manhood if Morzan hadn’t been summoned to hunt for Saphira’s egg. As soon as he departed, my mother had mysteriously disappeared. Galbatorix sent men to find her, but none prevailed. Five of the Forsworn were still alive when I was born. Three were still alive when Brom came to Gil’ead. He killed all of them, including Morzan. Galbatorix was enraged that everyone in the Forsworn was killed. My mother returned sometime after Morzan’s death, but she was ill. She soon died after her return.
Eragon: What happened then?
URU’BAEN-NIGHT
Murtagh and Galbatorix are each at the end of a long table aside from each other, eating dinner.
Murtagh (narrating): The king brought me to the palace and arranged for my upbringing. When I turned eighteen, the king summoned me to his quarters for a private dinner. I accepted the offer, aware that it would be unwise to refuse. During the dinner, it seemed that he was searching for something hidden in my face. I didn’t know what to make of it and did my best to provide polite conversation, but he refused to talk, and I soon ceased my efforts. He didn’t speak until the dinner was finished.
After Murtagh and Galbatorix finished eating, Galbatorix is talking to Murtagh.
Murtagh (narrating): His words were entrancing, like a snake whispering gilded lies into my ears. He wove a vision: a fantasy of the Empire as he imagined it. There would be beautiful cities built across the country, filled with the greatest warriors, artisans, musicians, and philosophers. The Urgals would finally be eradicated. It would be expanded in every direction until it reached the corners of this land. There would be peace and prosperity, and the Riders would be brought back to gently govern over Galbatorix’s fiefdoms. Then I asked him how he would bring back the order if there were no dragon eggs left. He said…
Galbatorix: Will you, son of my friend, serve me as I labor about this paradise?
Murtagh (narrating): Ardor for this mission filled me, and I fervently pledged myself to him. He was pleased. He said that he would summon me when he needed me. This did not come until several months later. He was angry when it came. The Varden had destroyed three bridages in the south. He ordered me to take troops with me to raid Cantos. He told me…
Galbatorix (angry): They’re all traitors! Burn them at the stake and bury their ashes with dung!
Murtagh (narrating): It was then that I realized that he meant to actually harm people who were trying to bring peace. As soon as I was free of his presence, my faithful servant, Tornac, and I left during the middle of the night. However, Galbatorix knew I would do this, and sent men after us.
Murtagh and Tornac were seen fighting men outside the gates of Uru’baen.
Murtagh (narrating): I managed to escape, but Tornac was killed in the battle.
A man runs through Tornac with his sword. Murtagh runs away on horseback he stole outside from the soldiers.
FARTHEN DUR-NIGHT
Murtagh (narrating): I went into hiding after that. I heard rumors that there was a Rider, and that the Ra’zac were hunting him and his dragon down, and that’s how I found you.
Eragon: How about you join the Varden? Once you prove your loyalty, everyone here will trust you.
Murtagh: I don’t want Galbatorix to learn that I’m here, which is impossible if people start saying that I’ve sided with his enemies, which I’ve never done. They’ll treat me like a criminal or worse once they find out who I am. And people will begin to have suspicions about you since we’ve been traveling together!
Just then, Orik returned with a tray that had a large peace of meat, two bowls of soup, and a loaf of bread. He lied it down on the floor.
Orik: Eat up.
Eragon: Thanks!
Orik: My pleasure.
Orik leaves the room. Murtagh takes the large piece of meat and tosses it to Saphira. Saphira opens her mouth and eats it. Eragon takes the loaf and cuts it in half and gives one half to Murtagh. They eat their soup. After a while, they went to sleep.
MORNING
Murtagh: Eragon, wake up.
Eragon wakes up to see Orik and the bald men.
Eragon: Yes?
Twin #1: Ajihad wants to see you two. Please, come this way.
Eragon, Saphira, and Murtagh follow Orik and the bald men through the tunnels. The tunnels were made of crystals, showing that it was dwarf work.
Eragon: Where are our horses and weapons?
Twin #1: Your weapons will be returned when Ajihad sees fit. As for your horses, they are in the tunnel.
Eragon: And Arya?
Twin #2: I don’t know. The healers are still with her.
36.Tronjheim
They came to two doors. Orik opens the door. A bright light came through the cave. The light blinded Eragon and Murtagh, covering their eyes. After revealing their eyes, they see a massive volcanic crater. Its walls narrowed to a small ragged opening that was very high up. A soft beam of light fell through the aperture, illuminating the crater’s center, though it left the rest of the cavernous expanse in hushed twilight. The crater’s far side, hazy blue in the distance, looked to be nearly ten miles away. Giant icicles hundreds of feet thick and thousands of feet long hung leagues above them like glistening daggers. Farther down the crater’s inner walls, dark mats of moss and lichen covered the rock. There was a wide cobblestone path extending from the doors’ threshold. The path ran straight to the center of the crater, where it ended at the base of a snowy-white mountain that glittered like an uncut gem with thousands of colored lights. It was less than a tenth of height of the crater that loomed over and around it, but its diminutive appearance was deceiving, for it was slightly higher than a mile.
Orik: Looks very amazing, don’t you think?
Eragon: It’s beautiful.
Then Eragon saw a crowd. They were clustered around the tunnel’s entrance. They lined the cobblestones pathway—dwarves and humans packed together like trees in a thicket. There were thousands of them. All of them were looking at Eragon. Eragon smiles and waves his hand. A cheer and clap came from someone in the crowd. The rest of the crowd cheers.
Twin #1: Very good. Now start walking.
37.Ajihad
They continued to walk. The crowd let them pass through into the next tunnel. They came to a door. Orik opens it. They see a black man behind a large walnut desk.
Man: Welcome to Tronjheim, Eragon and Saphira. I am Ajihad, leader of the Varden. Please, take a seat.
Eragon sits in a seat while Saphira sits next to Eragon on the ground. Ajihad sits in his big chair behind the desk. Ajihad looks at Murtagh. Ajihad snaps his fingers. One of the bald men came and Ajihad whispered to him. Then the bald man whispered into Ajihad’s ear. The bald man walks away. Ajihad looks back at Murtagh.
Ajihad: You have placed me in a difficult position by refusing to be examined. The Twins only kept you here because of your loyalty towards Eragon and Saphira. But as long as you hide anything from us, we will not trust you.
Murtagh: You wouldn’t trust me anyway.
Ajihad face darkens.
Ajihad: Come here.
Murtagh comes to behind the desk.
Ajihad: Turn around and pull up your shirt.
Murtagh does so.
Ajihad (whispering): Murtagh. (to the Twins) Did you two know of this?
Twin #1: We discovered his name in Eragon’s mind, but we never suspected that he was the son of Morzan.
Ajihad: And you didn’t tell me?
He raised a hand.
Ajihad: We will discuss this later. (to Murtagh) Do you refuse to be probed?
Murtagh: Yes. I wont allow anyone to enter my mind.
Ajihad: There will be unpleaset consequences. Unless the Twins can certify that you aren’t a threat, we cannot give you credence due to your assistance you gave Eragon. I’ll have you locked up at all times so that the dwarves won’t hurt you. King Hrothgar would want you killed if he finds out that you’re here.
Murtagh: Will it be forever?
Ajihad: I will let you out if you let yourself be examined. If you’re trustworthy, the Twin’s will remove all knowledge of Farthen Dur’s location from your mind before you leave. What’s it going to be Murtagh?
Murtagh: Do with me what you will. I will be dead before I allow the Twins to breach my mind.
Ajihad: Guards!
Five guards came into the room.
Guard: Yes sir?
Ajihad points to Murtagh.
Ajihad: Take him to a windowless room and bar the door securely. Don’t allow anyone inside until I after I see him.
The guards grab Murtagh and take him out of the room. The Twins also leave the room.
Orik: Sir, the king will want to know of Murtagh. And there is still the matter of my insubordination…
Ajihad: I will tell Hrothgar myself. As for your actions…wait outside until I call for you. And don’t let the Twins get away, I’m not done with them.
Orik exits the room. Ajihad sits back in his chair.
Eragon: Is Arya all right?
Ajihad: No…but the healers tell me she will recover. They worked on her all night.
Eragon: Well, what now?
Ajihad: Could you explain to me what happened ever since you found Saphira’s egg.
The screen fades to black as he tells Ajihad everything except for Angela’s fortune and Solembum from finding Saphira’s egg to arriving to the Varden.
Ajihad: I see. Brom’s death is a terrible loss. He and were close friends for a long time. He was one of our greatest allies.
Eragon: What can I accomplish here?
Ajihad: The news of the Urgals’ alliance with the Empire is extremely serious. We must prepare for a battle if Galbatorix is to send them to attack us. What of the Shade? Did he have a scratch on his blade?
Eragon: Yes. What about it?
Ajihad: I put it there when I tried to cut out his heart. His name is Durza—one of the most vicious and cunning fiends in these lands. How did you kill him?
Eragon: Murtagh shot him in the forehead.
Ajihad: I was afraid of that. He did not kill him. A Shade can only be killed if he is stabbed in the heart. Durza is still alive.
Ajihad: You are an enigma, Eragon, a quandary that no one knows how to solve. Everyone knows what the Varden want—or the Urgals, or even Galbatorix—but no one knows what you want. That makes you dangerous to everyone, ever your allies.
There was a moment of silence.
Ajihad: We are grateful to you two for bringing Arya here safely. Islanzadi, the queen of the elves, refused to contact us ever since her daughter was captured. This should have them rejoin us soon.
Ajihad: I see that Brom had a chance to teach you, but we need to know how thorough he was. The elves expect you to finish your training with them, but I’m not sure if there’s time for that.
Eragon: Why not?
Ajihad: There are many reasons. You see, Eragon, the Varden are in an extremely delicate position. On one hand, we have to comply with the elves’ wishes if we want to keep them as allies. At the same time, we cannot anger the dwarves if we wish to lodge in Tronjheim.
Eragon: Aren’t they part of the Varden.
Ajihad: In a sense, yes. They allow us to live here and provide assistance in our struggle against the Empire, but they are only loyal to their king. I have no power over them except for what Hrothgar gives me, and even he often has trouble with the dwarf clans. He is sympathetic to our cause, but many of the chiefs aren’t. He can’t afford to anger them unnecessarily or he’ll lose the support of his people, so his actions on our behalf have been severely circumscribed.
Eragon: Are the chiefs against me as well?
Ajihad: Yes, I’m afraid. There has long been enmity dwarves and dragons—before the elves came and made peace, dragons made a regular habit of eating the dwarves’ flocks and stealing their gold—and the dwarves are slow to forget past wrongs. They never fully accept Riders or allowed them to police their kingdom. Galbatorix’s rise to power has only served to convince many of them that it would be better never to deal with the Riders or dragons ever again.
Eragon: Why doesn’t Galbatorix know where Farthen Dur and Ellesmera are? Surely he was told of them during his training as a Rider.
Ajihad: Told, yes, but was not shown to him. He asked for information during his rebellion, but they refused and he killed them.
Eragon: Why doesn’t he send an army to find Ellesmera?
Ajihad: Because the elves still have power to resist him.
Ajihad reached inside his vest to pull out a battered piece of parchment.
Ajihad: Do you know what this is?
Eragon looks at it. Lines of black script, written in an alien language, were inked across the page. Large sections of the writing had been destroyed by blots of blood. One edge of the parchement was charred.
Eragon: No.
Ajihad: It was taken from the leader of the Urgal host we destroyed last night. It cost us twelve men to do so—they sacrificed themselves so that you might escape safely. The writing is the king’s invention, a script he uses to communicate with his servants. It took me a while, but I was able to devise its meaning, at least where it’s legible. It says: “…gatekeeper at Ithro Zhada is to let this bearer and his minions pass. They are to be bunked with the others of their kind and by…but only if the two factions refrain from fighting. Command will be given under Tarok, under Gashz, under Durza, under Ushnark the Mighty.
Ajihad: Ushnark is Galbatorix. It means “father” in the Urgal tongue. (continuing) Find what they are suitable for and…The footmen and…are to be kept separate. No weapons are to be distributed until…for marching.
Ajihad: That’s as far as I can read.
Eragon: Where’s Ithro Zhada? I’ve never heard of it.
Ajihad: Nor have I, which makes me suspect that Galbatorix has renamed an existing place for his own purposes. After deciphering this, I asked myself what hundreds of Urgals were doing by the Beor Mountains where you first saw them and where they are going. There’s only one reason for the king to gather such a force—to forge an army of humans and monsters to destroy us. Farthen Dur hasn’t been discovered yet. The Urgals that discovered it yesterday were all killed.
There was a moment of silence.
Eragon: And what about Murtagh?
Ajihad: He will stay here until He allows the Twins to enter his mind.
Eragon: You can’t imprison him. He’s committed no crime!
Ajihad: We won’t let him go without being sure that he won’t turn against us. Innocent or not, he’s potentially as dangerous to us as his father was.
Eragon: How were you able to recognize his voice?
Ajihad: I met his father once. I wish Brom had told me he had taken Morzan’s sword. I suggest that you don’t carry it within Farthen Dur. Many here remember Morzan’s time with hate, especially the dwarves.
Eragon: I’ll remember that.
Ajihad: By the way, I have Brom’s ring, which he sent as confirmation of his identity. I was keeping it for when he returned to Tronjheim. Now that he’s dead, I suppose it belongs to you, and I think he wanted you to have it.
He gives it to Eragon. The symbol cut into the face of the sapphire was identical to the tattoo on Arya’s shoulder. He fit the ring onto his index finger.
Eragon: I am honored.
Ajihad: Orik!
Orik comes into the office.
Orik: Yes sir?
Ajihad (irritated): You’ve caused me a great deal of trouble. I’ve had to listen to one of the Twins complain all morning about your insubordination. They won’t let it rest until you are punished. It’s a serious matter that cannot be ignored.
Orik looked Eragon.
Orik: The Kull were almost around Kostha-merna. They were shooting arrows at the dragon, Eragon, and Murtagh, but the Twins did nothing to stop it. They refused to open the gates even though the opening phrase on the other side of the waterfall. And they refused to take action when Eragon did not rise from the water. Perhaps I did wrong, but I couldn’t let him die.
Eragon: I wasn’t strong enough to get out myself. I would have drowned if Orik hadn’t pulled me out.
Ajihad: And later, why did you oppose the Twins?
Orik: It wasn’t right for them to force their way into Murtagh’s mind. But I wouldn’t have stopped them if I’d known who he was.
Ajihad: You did the right thing. It isn’t our place to force our way into people’s minds, no matter who they are. Your actions were honorable, but you did defy a direct order from your commander. The penalty for that is death.
Eragon: You can’t kill him for that! He was only helping me.
Ajihad: It isn’t your place to interfere. Orik broke the law and must suffer the consequences.
Eragon: But-
Ajihad raised a hand.
Ajihad: But you are right. The sentence will be migrated because of the circumstances. As of now, Orik you are removed from active service and forbidden to engage in any military activites under my command. Do you understand?
Orik: Yes sir.
Ajihad: Further more, in the absence of your regular duties, I appoint you Eragon and Saphira’s guide for their stay here. You are to make sure they receive every comfort and amenity we have to offer. Saphira will stay above the Isidar Mithrim. Eragon may have quarters wherever he wants.
Orik: Understood, Lord Ajihad.
Ajihad: Very well, you may all go. Send in the Twins as you leave.
Eragon, Saphira, and Orik leave the office.
Orik tells the Twins to go in. They go in after he whispers to one of them.
Orik: Here, let me show you around before we take you to your quarters.
Eragon: All right. I’m sorry for getting you into trouble.
Orik: It’s no big deal. Ajihad is a good leader. He understands how to keep the law yet remain just. I have been punished by his command, but I’m also one of Hrothgar’s subjects. Under his rule, I’m still free to do what I wish.
38.Magical Blessing
OUTSIDE-AFTERNOON
Eragon, Saphira, and Orik are walking through the village. Just then, a woman carrying a blanket comes to Eragon.
Woman: Excuse me.
The woman unbundles the blanket to reveal a baby.
Woman: This child has no parents—I’m caring for her, but I am weak. Bless her with your power, Argetlam, bless her.
She kneels down to Eragon.
Eragon: All right. I’m new to blessings, but I’ll try the best I can.
Eragon puts his right hand on the baby’s forehead.
Eragon: Atra gulai un ilian tauthr ono un atra ono waise skolir fra rauthr. (Let luck and happiness follow you and may you be shielded from misfortune.)
There was a low rumble. Eragon takes his hand away from the baby.
Eragon: This is all I can do for her.
Woman: Thank you, Argetlam.
Saphira touches the baby’s forehead with her nose. When she took away her head, it showed the gedwey ignasia. The crowd gasps as they see the symbol. The woman walks away.
39.A Familiar Face
NIGHT
Eragon wakes up to see Solembum in the room.
Eragon (whispers): Solembum?
Solembum (whispers): Follow me.
Eragon follows Solembum to another room. In the room, he saw Angela sitting in a chair. She smiled.
Eragon: What are you and Solembum doing here?
Angela: Please, sit down.
Eragon sits down on the floor.
Angela: So! You are a Rider. I suspected as much, but I didn’t know for certain until yesterday. I’m sure Solembum knew, but he never told me. I should have figured it out for when you mentioned Brom. Saphira…I like the name.
Eragon (sad): Brom’s dead. He died protecting me from the Ra’zac.
Angela: I’m sorry. I met Brom once or twice. He didn’t care for my “frivolous” attitude towards magic. It irritated him.
Eragon: You laughed at his fate and said that it was something of a joke. Why?
Angela: In retrospect, it was in reather bad taste, but I didn’t know what would befall him. Brom was cursed in a way. It was his wyrd to fail at all of his tasks except one. He was chosen as a Rider, but his dragon was killed. He loved a woman, but it was his affection that was her undoing. And he was chosen to guard and train you, but in the end he failed that as well. The only thing he succeeded in was killing Morzan.
She scooped a pile of reeds from the floor and deftly started plaiting them together, closing the subject of discussion.
Eragon: Why are you here?
Angela: After hearing Brom’s name again during your visit, I sensed a return of the past in Alagaesia. People were whispering that the Empire was hunting a Rider. I knew then that the Varden’s dragon egg must have hatched, so I came here. I had to get her as fast as possible. I’ve been here for nearly a month now. Everyone here is so serious and noble. The dwarves are just a superstitious bunch of ninnies content to hammer rockes all their lives. The only redeeming aspect of this place is all the mushrooms and fungi that grow inside Farthen Dur.
Eragon: Then why stay?
Angela: I like to at places where important events occur. By the way, what has befallen you ever since you left Teirm?
The screen fades to black as Eragon explains what happened after his departure from Teirm.
Angela: Fascinating. Galbatorix allied with the Urgals, and Murtagh finally out in the open…I’d warn you to be careful with Murtagh, but you’re obviously aware of the danger.
Eragon: Murtagh has been trustworthy during our travels.
Angela: Yes, but still be careful. Never let your guard down. As for the Shade, Durza is the greatest threat to the Varden now, aside from Galbatorix. They practice the most unholy magic.
Eragon: Brom told me that Shades were sorcerers who used spirits to accomplish their will, but why does that make them so evil?
Angela: It doesn’t. Ordinary sorcerers are neither better nor worse than the rest of us. They use their magic to control spirits and their powers. Shades, however, relinquish that control in their search for greater power and allow their bodies to be controlled by spirits. Only the evilest spirits seek to possess humans, and once ensconced they never leave. Once a Shade is created, it’s terribly difficult to kill.
Eragon: Striking them in the heart is the only way to kill them.
Angela: Correct. Only Laetri the Elf and Irnstad the Rider are the only ones who ever killed a Shade.
Eragon: Why are you living so high up here? How’d you get all this stuff to up here?
Angela: I’m in hiding. I only had a few days of peace here, until one of the guards blabbed about who I was. All the magicians came here to pester me to join their secret group. Finally, I decided to threaten them by turning them into frogs, but when that didn’t work, I sneaked up here in the middle of the night.
Eragon: Did the Twins enter your mind before they allowed you here?
Angela: They wouldn’t dare probe me, for fear of what I would do to them.
She peered into the other room.
Angela: Well! This has been an enlightening talk, but I’m afraid you have to go now. My brew of mandrake root and newt’s tongue is about to boil, and it needs attending. Do come back again when you have the time. And please don’t tell anyone that I’m here. I’d hate to move again. It makes me very…irritated.
Eragon: I’ll keep your location secret.
Eragon stands up.
Angela: Good!
Eragon leaves the room and goes back to bed.
40.Hrothgar, the Dwarven King and Nasuada
MORNING
Eragon wakes up. Saphira wakes up also. As they woke up, Orik comes in.
Orik: Ah, you’re awake. Please get dressed and come with me. King Hrothgar wants to see you both.
As they walk through Tronjheim…
Orik: You’ll meet him in his throne room beneath the city. It will be a private audience as an act of otho—of “faith.” You do not have to address him in a special manner, but speak to him respectfully. Hrothgar is quick to anger, but he is wise and sees keenly into the minds of men, so think carefully before you speak.
Once they entered Tronjheim’s central chamber, Orik led the way to one of the two descending stairways that flanked the opposite hall. They started down the right-hand staircase, which gently curved inward until it faced the direction they had come from. The other stairway merged with theirs to form a broad cascade of dimly lit steps that ended, after a hundred feet, before two granite doors. A seven-pointed crown was carved across the doors. Seven dwarves stood guard on each side of the portal. They held burnished mattocks and wore gem-encrusted belts. As Eragon, Saphira, and Orik approached, the dwarves pounded the floor with the mattocks’ hafts. A deep boom rolled back up the stairs. The doors swung inward. A dark hall lay before them, a good bowshot long. The throne room was a natural cave; the walls were lined with stalagmites and stalactites, each thicker than a man. Sparsely hung lanterns cast a moody light. The brown floor was smooth and polished. At the far end of the hall was a black throne with a motionless figure upon it in a golden kings robe.
Orik (bowing): The king awaits you.
Eragon and Saphira walked closer to King Hrothgar. The doors close as they approach him. When they were close enough to him, they bow down.
Hrothgar: Rise, Rider and dragon, you need not to tribute to me.
Eragon and Saphira look up to him. Hrothgar looks at them with a hard gaze.
Hrothgar: I could not meet with you two earlier, as Ajihad did, because I was forced to deal with enemies within the clans. They demanded that I deny you sanctuary and expel you from Farthen Dur. It had taken much on my part to convince them otherwise.
Eragon: Thank you, Your Majesty. I did not know that my arrival would cause so much trouble.
Hrothgar nods. He lifted a gnarled hand and pointed.
Hrothgar: See there, Rider Eragon, where my predeccessors, sit upon their graven thrones. One and forty there are, with I the forty-second. When I pass from this world into the care of the gods, my hirna will be added to their ranks. The first statue is the likeness of my ancestor Korgan, who forged this mace, Volund. For eight millennia—since the dawn of our race—dwarves have ruled under Farthen Dur. We are the bones of the land, older than both the fair elves and the savage dragons. I am old. Old enough to have seen the Riders in all their fleeting glory, old enough to have spoken with their last leader, Vrael, who paid tribute to me within these very walls. I remember the Riders and how they meddled in our affairs. I also remember the peace they kept that made it possible to walk unharmed from Tronjheim to Narda. And now you stand before me—a lost tradition revived. Tell me, why have you come to Farthen Dur? I know of the events that made you flee the Empire, but what is your intent now?
Eragon: For now, Saphira and I merely want to recuperate in Tronjheim. We are not here to cause trouble, only to find sanctuary from the dangers we’ve faced during our travels. Ajihad may send us to the elves, but until then, I will stay here, if that’s all right with you, Your Majesty.
Hrothgar: Do you only desire to stay here to forget your troubles?
Eragon: If Ajihad told you of my past, you should know that I have grievances enough to fight the Empire until it is no more. I also want to aid those who cannot escape Galbatorix, including my cousin, Roran. I have the strength to help, so I must.
Hrothgar (to Saphira): Dragon, what think you in this matter? For what reason have you come?
Saphira (to Eragon): Tell him that I thirst for the blood of our enemies and eagerly await the day when we ride to battle against Galbatorix. I’ve no mercy for traitors and egg breakers like that false king. He held me for over a century and, even now, still has two of my brethren, whom I would free if possible.
Eragon: She wants to destroy the Empire alongside me and free the other two dragons that are in Galbatorix’s possession.
Hrothgar was amazed.
Hrothgar: I see that you dragons haven’t changed one bit. What is there to remind you of your obligations, Eragon? If the Empire falls, will you take Galbatorix’s place and claim his kingship?
Eragon: No, being a Rider is responsibility enough. I won’t take the throne unless no one else is willing to become ruler of this land.
Hrothgar: Certaintly you would be a kinder king than Galbatorix, but no race should have a leader who does not age or leave the throne. The time of the Riders has passed, Eragon. They will never rise again—not even if Galbatorix’s other eggs were to hatch.
Hrothgar looks at Zar’roc on Eragon’s left hip with a dark face.
Hrothgar: I see you carry an enemy’s sword; I was told of this, and that you travel with a son of the Forsworn. It does not please me to think of it.
He extends his hand.
Hrothgar: Could I please see it?
Eragon unsheathed Zar’roc and handed it to Hrothgar. He takes the sword and looks at it.
Hrothgar: A masterfully forged blade. Elves rarely choose to make swords—they prefer bows and spears—but when they do, the results are unmatched. This is an ill-fated blade; I am not glad to see it within my realm. But carry it if you will; perhaps its luck has changed.
Hrothgar gives Zar’roc back to Eragon. He puts it back in its sheath.
Hrothgar: Has my nephew proved helpful during your time here?
Eragon: Who?
Hrothgar: Orik, my youngest sister’s son. He’s been serving under Ajihad to show my support for the Varden. It seems that he has been returned to my command, however. I was gratified to hear that you defended him with your words.
Eragon: I couldn’t ask for a better guide.
Hrothgar: That is good. Unfortunately, I cannot speak with you much longer. My advisors wait for me, as there are matters I must deal with. I will say this though: If you wish the support of the dwarves within my realm, you must first prove yourself to them. We have long memories and do not rush to hasty decisions. Only deeds will decide what happens.
Eragon (bows): I’ll keep that in mind, Your Majesty. (gets up) It was a pleasure meeting you.
Hrothgar: And you.
Eragon and Saphira exit the throne.
Orik: How did it go?
Eragon: It went well.
Orik: Let me take you to your quarters. Tomorrow you will be trained at the training grounds.
NIGHT
Eragon, Saphira, and Orik go to their quarters. When they entered, they see a tall black girl in the room.
Woman: Could you tell me where Rider Eragon is?
Eragon (smiles): You’re looking at him.
The woman comes closer to Eragon.
Woamn: I am Nasuada, daughter of Ajihad. He sent me here to give you a message.
Eragon: And that is…?
Nasuada: He is pleased that you are doing well, but he cautions you against actions like your benediction yesterday. They create more problems than they solve. Also, he urges you to proceed with the testing as soon as possible—he needs to know how capable you are before he communicates with the elves. My father also decreed that you may visit Murtagh, if you wish. He is anxious to speak with you. He seemed lonely; you should visit him.
Eragon: And what of Arya?
Arya: Arya is recovering swiftly, as all elves do. However, no one is allowed to see her except Hrothgar and the healers. I must go. Is their anything you want me to tell my father?
Eragon: Tell him that I desire to visit Arya and that I thank him for his hospitality.
Nasuada: As you wish.
41.Magic and Sword Training
MORNING
Eragon, Saphira, and Orik head to the training grounds.
TRAINING FROUND-MORNING
A bearded man, his head and blocky shoulders covered by a mail coif, strode over to them. A rough oxhide suit that still had hair on it protected the rest of his body. A huge sword—almost as long as Eragon—hung across his broad back.
Man: Knurla Orik. You’ve been gone too long. There’s nobody left for me to spar with.
Orik (smiles): Oei, that’s because you bruise everyone from head to toe with your monster sword.
Man: Everyone except you.
The man looks at Eragon and Saphira.
Man: You must be Eragon. I’m Fredric. I’ve been told to find out what you can do. How strong are you?
Eragon: Strong enough. I have to be in order to fight with magic.
Fredric: Magic has no place in what we do here. Unless you’ve served in an army, which I doubt. We want to see if you are able to fight for hours, or weeks if you’re in a siege. Can you fight with anything other than you’re sword and bow?
Eragon: My fists.
Fredric (laughing): Good answer! Well, we’ll start you off with the bow and see how you do. Then once some space has cleared up on the field, we’ll try-
He stops and looks angrily past Eragon. Eragon turns to see the Twins.
Fredric: I told you to stay away from the training area.
Twin #1: We were ordered by Ajihad to test Eragon in the ways of magic before he can do any physical training.
Fredric: Why can’t someone else train him?
Twin #2: No one else is powerful enough.
Twin #1 (to Eragon and Saphira): Come with us.
Fredric: We have to help him if it goes too far.
Orik: Yes, but if I disobey the Twins again, Hrothgar won’t protect me like he did last time.
Eragon, Saphira, and the Twins go to an empty corner of the field.
Twins: You will attempt to complete the tasks we assign you…that is all.
One of them takes out a rock and places it on the ground.
Twin #2: Lift it to your eye level.
Eragon: Stenr Reisa! (Raise stone!)
The rock begins to float in the air. Eragon was able to lift it to his chest. He looks at the Twins to see them smiling.
Eragon (thoughts): They’re trying to make me fail! But I’m not alone either. Saphira, now!
Her mind melded with his, and the stone rose to Eragon’s eye level. The Twins look in shock.
Twin #1: Very good. Now move the stone in a circle.
Eragon moves the stone around.
After a few hours of practice…
Twin #1: Now there is one thing left to do.
One of them takes out a silver ring and hands it to Eragon.
Twin #2: Summon the essence of silver.
Eragon tries to do what they said, but couldn’t. He begins to get down to his knees, feeling weak from using so much magic.
Voice: Stop!
Eragon stops and he and the Twins turn to see Arya. Her sword was at her hip, and her bow on her back. She looks angrily at the Twins.
Arya: Shame! Shame to ask of him what only a master can do. Shame that you should use such methods. Shame that you told Ajihad you didn’t know Eragon’s abilities. He is competent. Now leave!
She looks at the silver ring in Eragon’s hand.
Arya: Arget! (Silver!)
The silver shimmered, and a ghostly image of the ring materialized next to it. The two were identical except that the apparition seemed purer and glowed white-hot. At the sight of it, the Twins spun on their heels and fled. The insubstantial ring vanished from Eragon’s hand, leaving the circlet of silver behind. Orik and Fredric were on their feet, eyeing Arya warily. She comes to Eragon and helps him up.
Arya: I claim the right of trial by arms. Draw your sword.
Eragon: You’re wanting to duel me?
Arya: Yes.
Many people begin to surround them to watch the duel.
They draw their swords.
Eragon & Arya: Geuloth du knifr! (Dull the knife!)
They dueled until it was nighttime.
NIGHT
Eragon fell to the floor, tired. Arya was very fast in movement and was easily overpowered. Arya points her sword at Eragon’s neck. She put her sword back in its sheath.
Arya: You have passed.
Arya helps Eragon up.
Fredric (amazed): That was the best swordsmanship I have ever seen!
Eragon looks at Orik, who is smiling.
Orik: That was a great performance.
Eragon smiles slightly, and then turns to Arya.
Eragon: Why did you pass me if I lost?
Arya: It isn’t always about winning and losing, sometimes its about showing your ability. And for that, you passed.
Eragon (to Orik): I have to go. I’ll return to the dragonhold soon.
He puts Zar’roc back in its sheath.
Arya: Wait, Eragon.
Eragon: Yes?
Arya: Skulblaka, eka celobra ono un mulabra ono un onr Shur’tugal ne haina. Atra nosu waise fricaya. (Dragon, I honor you and mean you and your Rider no harm. Let us be friends.)
Eragon smiles.
Eragon: I’m glad that you recovered. We didn’t know if you would live or not.
Arya: That is why I came here today. I owe you a debt that must be repaid. You saved my life. That can never be forgotten.
Eragon (embarrassed): It-It was nothing. How did you come to be in Gil’ead?
Arya: Let us walk.
Eragon and Arya walk through the city.
Arya: Ajihad told me you were present when Saphira’s egg appeared.
Eragon: Yes.
Arya: At the same time as you found it, Durza, the Shade, had captured me. It was he who led the Urgals that ambushed and slew my companions: Faolin and Glenwing. Somehow he knew where to wait for us—we had no warning. I was drugged and transported to Gil’ead. Durza was charged by Galbatorix to learn where I had sent the egg and all I knew of Ellesmera. He tortured me for information, but I never answered his questions. After months without success, Durza decided to bring me to Uru’baen. Dread filled me when I learned of this, as I was weary in both mind and body and had no strength to resist Galbatorix. If it weren’t for you, I would have stood before Galbatorix himself.
Eragon: What are you going to do now? Go back to Ellesmera.
Arya: No, not yet. There is much that must be done here. I cannot abandon the Varden—Ajihad needs my help, as well as yours. I also see that Brom has taught you well. You are ready to proceed with your training.
Eragon: You mean to go to the elves?
Arya: Yes.
Eragon: When?
Arya: That is yet to be decided.
Eragon: What did the Twins want from me?
Arya: Something not even they can accomplish. It is possible to speak the name of an object in the Ancient Language and summon its true form. It takes years of work and great discipline, but the reward is complete control over the object. That is why one’s true name is always kept hidden, for if it were known by any evil in their hearts, they could dominate you utterly.
Eragon: It’s strange, but before I was captured at Gil’ead, I had visions of you in my dreams.
Arya: There were times I felt as if another presence was watching me, but I was often confused and feverish. I’ve never heard of anyone, either in lore or legend, being able to scry in their sleep.
Eragon: I don’t understand it either.
Eragon looks at Brom’s ring on his index finger.
Eragon: What does the tattoo on your shoulder mean? I saw it while I was healing your wounds. It looks like the symbol of the ring.
Arya: You have a ring with the yawe on it?
Eragon: Yes. It was Brom’s.
Arya: This is a token given only to the most valued elf-friends—so valued, in fact, it has not been used in centuries. Or so I thought. I never knew that Queen Islanzadi thought so highly of Brom.
Eragon: I shouldn’t wear it, then.
Arya: Keep it. It will give you protection if you meet my people, and it may help you gain favor with the queen. Tell no one of my tattoo. It should not be revealed.
Eragon: Very well.
They stop walking.
Eragon: I must go see Murtagh. It was a pleasure talking with you.
They leave.
Eragon comes to a small gray door with two guards, a human and a dwarf, next to it.
Eragon: I have come to see Murtagh.
Man: You may go in.
Eragon enters. The room looked nice. The cell was warm and well lit, with a washbasin in one corner and a writing desk—equipped with quills and ink—in another. The ceiling was extensively carved with lacquered figures; the floor was covered with a plush rug. Murtagh lay on a stout bed, reading a scroll. He looked up in surprise.
Murtagh: Eragon!
Eragon: How did…I mean I thought-
Murtagh: You thought that I was stuck in some rat hole chewing on hardtack. Actually, I expected the same thing, but Ajihad lets me have all this as long as I don’t cause trouble. And they bring me huge meals, as well as anything I want from the library.
Eragon: But aren’t you angry? You’re still a prisoner.
Murtagh: I was at first. But the more I thought about it, the more I came to realize that this is really the best place for me. Even if Ajihad gave me my freedom, I would stay here most of the time anyway. So what’s new?
Eragon sits next to him on the bed and explains what happened the past two days. The screen turns black as he does, then returns to normal.
Murtagh: Well, I suspect that Arya is more important then either of us thought. She is a master of the sword, powerful in magic, and that she was chosen to guard Saphira’s egg.
Eragon: Yes.
Murtagh looks at the ceiling.
Murtagh: You know, I find this imprisonment oddly peaceful. For once in my life I don’t have to be afraid. I know I ought to be…yet something about this place puts me at ease. A good night’s sleep helps, too.
Eragon: Nasuada said that she has visited you. Did she say anything interesting?
Murtagh: No, she only wanted to meet me. Doesn’t she look like a princess? When she entered, I thought she was one of the great ladies of Galbatorix’s court.
Eragon: How long are you going to remain imprisoned? You can’t hide forever.
Murtagh: For now I’m content to stay and rest. There’s no reason for me to seek shelter elsewhere nor submit myself to the Twins examination. No doubt I’ll tire of this eventually, but for now…I am content.
Eragon: Very well. I must be getting to bed. Good night, Murtagh.
Murtagh: Good night, Eragon.
Eragon leaves the room.
42.Preparing for Battle
PAST MIDNIGHT
Voice: Wake up!
Eragon wakes up to see Orik beside him.
Orik: Get dressed, now! Ajihad needs to see you!
Eragon: What is it?
Orik: There’s no time, hurry!
Eragon gets dressed and he, Saphira, and Orik go to Ajihad’s office. Ajihad was behind his desk. Arya and a man with wiry arms were there as well.
Eragon: What happened?
Ajihad: Eragon, this is Jormundur, my second in command.
Eragon greets him.
Ajihad: We are all in grave danger. About half an hour ago, a dwarf ran out of an abandoned tunnel under Tronjheim. He was bleeding and nearly incoherent, but he had enough sense left to tell the dwarves what had happened. An army of Urgals are in the tunnels. They are approaching us from underground. We’re going to be attacked from below.
Ajihad points to a map. Eragon came closer. The map depicted the southern half of Alagaesia. Ajihad put his finger on the section of the Beor Mountains that touched Surda’s eastern border.
Ajihad: This is where the dwarf claimed to have come from.
Orik: Orthiad! It’s an ancient dwelling of ours that was deserted when Tronjheim was completed. During its time it was the greatest of our cities. But no one’s lived there for centuries.
Ajihad: And it’s old enough for some of the tunnels to have collapsed. Now it’s called Ithro Zhada since the Urgals have taken it over. They can now travel anywhere in the Beor Mountains with the tunnels. They have the power to destroy the Varden and the dwarves.
Jormundur: Do you know how many of them are heading this way?
Ajihad: I’m not sure. But if Galbatorix augmented the Urgals’ ranks with his own men, we won’t stand a chance. But if not, we can possibly win. Neither Orrin nor the elves can help us at this late hour, but I have sent messengers to both Surda and Ellesmera, so they won’t be caught by surprise if we lose. I’ve already talked with Hrothgar, and we’ve decided on a course of action. Our only hope is to contain the Urgals in three of the larger tunnels and channel them them into Farthen Dur so they don’t swarm inside Tronjheim. I need you, Eragon and Arya, to help the dwarves collapse extraneous tunnels. The job is too big for normal means. Two groups are already working on it: one outside Tronjheim, and the other beneath. Eragon will work with the one outside, while Arya will do the underground. We’ll seal all the passageways leading into the city. As for the women and children, they will be evacuated from Farthen Dur. Now go!
Eragon, Saphira, and Arya leave with Orik. Ajihad goes to Jomundur.
Ajihad: Ready the men for battle.
Jormundur: Yes sir.
Eragon is helping the dwarves with the tunnels.
Eragon: Thrysta deloi. (Compress the earth.)
Tentacles of power went into the soil. Almost immediately they encountered rock. He ignored it and reached farther down until he felt the hollow emptiness of the tunnel. Then he began searching for flaws in the rock. Every time he found one, he pushed on it, elongating and widening it.
Eragon goes back in. Orik came to him, carrying plate armor.
Orik: Here.
Eragon: What is this?
Orik: A gift from Hrothgar. It was forged before the fall of the Riders.
Eragon: Thank you.
Eragon puts on the armor. His whole body was covered, except for his face.
Orik: Saphira is also having her armor put on.
Eragon: Dragons wear armor, too?
Orik: Of course! You think a dragon can go into war unprotected?
Eragon smiles. He looks past Orik to see Murtagh. He was in armor, carrying a dwarf shield and his hand-and-a-half sword. Eragon goes to him.
Eragon: You too, huh?
Murtagh: Ajihad wants me to prove that I mean the Varden no harm.
Orik: Why?
Voice: Because I said so.
It was Ajihad. He puts a hand on Eragon’s shoulder.
Ajihad: We must get to our positions.
Eragon: Yes sir.
43.Battle Under Farthen Dur
Everyone got to their positions. They waited and waited. They heard rumbles, and The Urgals burst through. The battle had begun. They fight there way through the tunnels. The battle goes on for 6 minutes.
Twin #1 (thoughts): Eragon!
Eragon (thoughts): Yes?
Twin #2: King Hrothgar needs your assistance; the fight goes badly for him.
Eragon gets on Saphira and flew to Ajihad and Hrothgar’s area. And continued the fight. This goes on for 5 minutes.
Arya: We need to get to another area!
Eragon and Arya get on Saphira and flew down a tunnel. Just then, an Urgal hurls his big hammer at Saphira, hitting her chest plate, crushing it. Saphira roars in pain, and crashes down.
Eragon: Saphira!
He drew a bow and shot the Urgal that threw the hammer.
Arya: I’ll get the chest plate off. You continue on.
Eragon runs down the tunnel, killing any Urgal that got in his way. He ran for 1 minute. He reaches a dead end.
44.Rider vs. Shade
There were no Urgals there at all. Atop the wall was the Isidar Mithrim. Suddenely, an explosion came from the wall. As the smoke clears, a figure in black armor came forth. It was Durza. He held his sword that had a scratch across its blade. Eragon looks in fear at him.
Durza: So, my young Rider, we meet again. You were foolish to escape from me in Gil’ead. It will only make things worse for you in the end.
Eragon: You’ll never take me alive!
Eragon charges at Durza, and they dueled.
Durza: Tell me where your dragon is.
Eragon: Never!
Durza: Then I will force it from you!
They continued to duel. This lasts for 2½ minutes. Eragon kicks Durza in the leg. Durza falls to the floor. Eragon backs away and throws his shield at Durza, cutting him across the hip. Eragon thrusts at Durza with his mind and drove through Durza’s weakened defenses. A flood of images suddenely engulfed him, rushing through his consciousness—
Durza as a young boy living as a nomad with his parents on an empty plain is seen. The tribe abandoned them and called his father “oathbreaker.” Only it was not Durza then, but Carsaib—the name of his mother crooned while combing her hair…
Standing on a hill over the graves of his parents, weeping that the men had not killed him as well. He turns and stumbling blindly away, into the desert…
How the old man looked when he first saw Carsaib lying near death on a sand dune. The days it had taken Carsaib to recover and the fear he felt upon discovering that his rescuer was a sorcerer. How he had pleaded to be taught the control of spirits. How Haeg had finally agreed. Called him “Desert Rat.”…
The days spent training under the scorching sun, always alert for the lizards they caught for food. How his power slowly grew, giving him pride and confidence. The weeks spent nursing his sick master after a failed spell. His joy when Haeg recovered…
The bandits attacked during the night, killing Haeg. The rage Carsaib had felt and the spirits he had summoned for vengeance. But the spirits were stronger than he expected. They turned on him, possessing mind and body. The darkness spread and killed all the bandits. He screamed, “I AM DURZA!”
Durza was behind Eragon. He raises his sword and slashes him across the back. Eragon yells in pain. Durza raises his sword to strike. Just then, he saw the Isidar Mithrim fall to the floor. It shattered. A flash of light came, blinding Eragon and Durza. Eragon turns to see Arya and Saphira. Saphira breathes blue fire. Durza blows away the fire just by touching it. Eragon got up and stabbed Durza through the heart.
Eragon (yells): Brisingr! (Fire!)
Fire engulfed Zar’roc, and burned Durza. Durza explodes and the dark spirits within him come out. Eragon falls unconscious.
45.Osthato Chetowa
DREAM
Eragon is seen lying down wiggling around, being consumed by darkness. Just then, a hand reached out to him. Eragon reaches it, and it pulls him out. A bright light comes.
Voice: Come to me.
Eragon: Who…who are you?
Voice: One who would help. I have protected you as best I can, but you are so far away I can do no more than shield your sanity from the pain.
Eragon: Who are you to do this?
Voice: I am Osthato Chetowa, the Mourning Sage. And Togira Ikonoka, the Cripple Who Is Whole. Come to me, Eragon, for I have answers to all you ask. You will not be safe until you find me.
Eragon: Where can I find you if I don’t know where you are?
Voice: Trust Arya and go with her to Ellesmera—I will be there. I have waited many seasons, so do not delay or it may soon be too late. You are greater than you know, Eragon. Think of what you have done and rejoice, for you have rid the world of a great evil. Many are in your debt. It is time for you to rest. When you wake, tell no one of me. Remember, you must go to the elves. Now, sleep…
46.Loss of a Leader and Friend
FARTHEN DUR-DAY
Eragon wakes up to see that he was in his bedroom. As he gets up, he twitches. He felt his back to feel a scar that went down from his shoulder to his left hip. He gets dressed and exits.
Eragon hears a noise. And saw Murtagh, Ajihad, the Twins, and some soldiers fighting five Urgals. Just then, a bright beam of light came. As it faded, Ajihad was on the floor badly wounded and the soldiers dead. Murtagh, the Twins, and the Urgals were gone. Eragon sees Arya.
Eragon: Arya! Ajihad’s been hurt! Murtagh and the Twins have disappeared!
They run to Ajihad. He had many fatal wounds on his body.
Eragon looks at his wounds.
Eragon (to Arya): Could you please find them for me? I’ll look after Ajihad.
Arya nods and runs through a tunnel.
Eragon: The Urgals did this to you?
Ajihad (dying): Yes.
Eragon puts his hand above Ajihad’s wounds.
Ajihad (dying): Leave it. My wounds cannot be healed. I am doomed.
Eragon (sadly): No…This can’t be.
Ajihad (dying): Eragon…Before I go…Promise me…promise me that you won’t let the Varden fall into chaos. They are the only hope of resisting the Empire…
Eragon: I don’t know what strength there is left in me, but I will make sure not to let the Varden fall. I will make sure that we defeat Galbatorix and bring back peace.
Ajihad takes his sword and holds it over his chest. Everyone in Farthen Dur and Tronjheim gather around.
Ajihad: Then may peace be with you, Eragon Shadeslayer.
Ajihad dies. Eragon mournfully bows.
Eragon: Be at peace…Lord Ajihad.
Eragon stands up.
Eragon (to everyone): Ajihad has been slain by the Urgals and the Twins and Murtagh have been captured.
ERAGON’S ROOM
Eragon is sitting on his bed. Arya enters. Eragon gets up.
Eragon: Did you find them?
Arya: All I found were these.
She shows him Murtagh’s tunic and one of the Twin’s robes. Both were torn and had blood on them.
Arya: The Urgals must have taken their armor and threw them into a pit. I tried to scry them, but all I saw was darkness.
There was a moment of silence.
Arya: I am sorry. They are gone.
Eragon looks in shock at Murtagh’s tunic.
It shows an imagination of Murtagh and the Twins’ deaths.
Murtagh and the Twins are struggling against the Urgals.
Flashes back to Eragon.
The Urgals rip off their tunic and robes and throw the bodies into the pit. We see Murtagh and the Twins fall to their deaths.
Flashes back to Eragon. Tears come out of his eyes.
Eragon (crying): First Ajihad, now Murtagh.
NEXT DAY
Everyone is at Ajihad’s funeral. Everyone pays their respects to Ajihad. His body was then put in a tomb of the dwarven kings. When Ajihad was about to be put into his tomb, Nasuada holds his pale hand and sings in a wailing voice.
Everyone bows down mournfully as the stone door closed, sealing Ajihad in his tomb. On the door, it said:
May all, Knurlan, Humans, and Elves,
Remember
This Man,
For he was Noble, Strong, and Wise
Ajihad
Guntera Aruna
Everyone leaves with tears on their faces. The screen fades to black.
47.End Credits
END CREDITS
After the music from before the credits ends, “May It Be” by Enya is being sung. After the song has ended, one part of the music from the movie plays for the rest of the credits.
This post has been edited by Eldest Freak: 29 October 2009 - 09:55 PM
MultiQuote
